polishing valve covers

[smallv6]

How can I get the aluminum valve covers to look polished to the point that they look chrome? also is it possible to clear coat after polishing to maintain the look.
Thanks

 

[Dan Thompson]

If you take a look at my website and if you can see the inlet bell on the turbo, which is I believe aluminum, that was polished on a buffing wheel on a bench grinder.

I have two 10" buffing wheels, each uses a different grade of polishing compound, one course, the fine, for each wheel.

My problem would be getting the valve covers back on without leaking.

HTH

 

[Russ Merritt]

Sandpaper & water. Start with 150 grit, then progress to 1500. Might take a while but if you don't have a buffer, it will work mint!