Posted 2019-01-10 9:02 AM (#172140) Subject: Acid wash a painted trailer?
New User
Posts: 1
Hi,
I have a 2005 all aluminum Featherlight trailer that's factory painted white. My trim and fenders are not painted.
Is it safe to take it to the truck wash and have it acid washed? I do not want to mess up the paint job.
Thank you!
Posted 2019-01-14 1:57 PM (#172144 - in reply to #172140) Subject: RE: Acid wash a painted trailer?
Expert
Posts: 5870
Location: western PA
Repeated acid washings can damage painted surfaces. Acid washings can also etch aluminum, which will permanately distort the finish. If you can find a citrus wash, it will cause much less of a problem.
Posted 2019-02-04 8:06 PM (#172180 - in reply to #172144) Subject: RE: Acid wash a painted trailer?
Expert
Posts: 2614
Chemical Guys brand makes a good gel citrus automotive wash- it may not be strong enough to brighten oxidized mill finish or bright finish aluminum though. I have found that in lieu of using a MILD acid trailer wash available through various dealers,that cleaning strength vinegar used full strength,will usually brighten up a dull aluminum finish and does a good job on white " skin"( painted) aluminum surfaces also.
(PS) I've always been a fan of Streakmaster's trailer wash products. The Wash and Protect is great for painted and bare aluminum.