"Finishing" Aluminum

[marty_scher]

I found a great price on some extruded aluminum tubing, to mount my downriggers to. I should be able to bolt everything on, but may have a couple of flat pieces welded on, to attach rod holders.<br /><br />When complete, I would like to "finish" the AL to give it a decent, uniform look. <br /><br />What is best to use? Fine grit abrasive, steel wool? something else?<br /><br />Any help appeciated.

 

[snapperbait]

Re: "Finishing" Aluminum

Might contact a plating shop and see about having the parts anodized... They'll look a lot better and the anodized finish will help the aluminum endure the marine enviornment better, especially if used in saltwater.. <br /><br />Perhaps clear powder coating?

 

[marty_scher]

Re: "Finishing" Aluminum

Thanks for the info, snapperbait<br /><br />No problem with salt here. <br /><br />I also have some pedestal seat mounts that I believe are called "Brushed Aluminum", which basically, they are heavily scratched, but in a directional uniform way.<br /><br />Maybe something like "Brushing" would work on this rig.<br /><br />Marty