Is a C2 license opening surround plated or anodized over the aluminum?

[Paul B.]

Hi,
I have a license plate opening surround with a couple of scrapes on the top edge that I was going to sand and then buff out for use on my '67 driver.
The surround almost looks like there is plating or anodizing over the aluminum, wondering how it will look if I try to fix it?


Thanks,

Paul

[Harry S.]

Re: Is a C2 license opening surround plated or anodized over the aluminum?

The surround is stainless steel and should be magnetic. Use wet sand paper, start at 600 and work up to 12000 if you can get it. Then use a polishing cream.

[Dick W.]

Re: Is a C2 license opening surround plated or anodized over the aluminum?

OEM's are anodized aluminum. I believe Harry is referring to the plate trim.

[Paul B.]

Re: Is a C2 license opening surround plated or anodized over the aluminum?

Thanks for the feedback guys, Yup I'm referring to the surround for the opening as in this pilfered pic.

DSC01213.JPG

Since it is anodized (thanks Dick), curious how it will look if I sand and buff the outer edge?

Paul

[Paul J.]

Re: Is a C2 license opening surround plated or anodized over the aluminum?

You need to remove the anodizing and have it reanodized after you polish it.

[Harry S.]

Re: Is a C2 license opening surround plated or anodized over the aluminum?

OEM's are anodized aluminum. I believe Harry is referring to the plate trim.

Yes I was.

[Gene M.]

Re: Is a C2 license opening surround plated or anodized over the aluminum?

Paul,
If you remove the anodize by sanding the entire outer surfaces of the part, you can work your way from 320 grit all the way down (400, 600, 800 etc) to 1500 grit. Then on a buffing wheel with white compound shine up till your happy with surfaces. A dremel with buffing wheel works good in tight areas. I suggest final hand polish with Wenol or Mothers to prevent oxidation, cause there is no protection to the bare aluminum. Done. Not necessary to re-anodize, but it will require polish from time to time since it is bare metal.

[Paul B.]

Re: Is a C2 license opening surround plated or anodized over the aluminum?

Hi Gene, how you guys been?
I fixed the scratches with 400, 600, then 1500 sandpaper and then shined it up with Wenol.
It looks good to me, I'll try it on the car and see how it is, if the repairs show I'll sand all the anodizing off the whole thing.
You guys doing the road tour to the national? Cheers, Paul