Brillo Pads on Aluminum?

[Mooselaker]

I just thought I'd post this real quick. I keep seeing advice on using Brillo pads to shine(clean) aluminum boats.
I have vintage Aluminum trailers, and their Gurus say '"don't do It", Brillo pads are steel wool, and tiny steel fibers will embed into the aluminum and rust. They advise Aluminum Wool(hard to find - Vintage Trailer Supply?) and that's what I use when using Citristrip to remove old paint. It can leave scratch marks depending on fineness of wool. No good way to polish aluminum and keep even patina that I know of, & I think it's best to leave anodized alone. Just some thoughts on the subject. Don

 

[Krichbourg]

Re: Brillo Pads on Aluminum?

I think you're right Don. As aluminum oxidizes it creates its own very durable finish. It may not be pretty but it actually protects the metal. If you keep polishing it, it will just oxidize again and gradually you wear down the metal. Can be hard to resist, a freshly polished aluminum hull is a sight to behold. It just won't last long.

 

[Loon-A-Sea]

Re: Brillo Pads on Aluminum?

What is the best way to polish aluminum?