SOHC.co.uk Forums > CB500/550

Lower fork legs - restoring the alluminium look.

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McCabe-Thiele (Ted):
I've just started to clean up one of the fork legs prior to re-assembly - I started off with some basic polishing to remove the heavier oxidation on the inside of the legs using my little nylon/plasic polishing mops & various wheels, After a couple of half hour sessions I'm thinking I will paint it instead.

Just need to decide a colour (not Nut Brown) probably go for a mid grey coloured silver  - I'm open to ideas not looking for original - I've decided polishing is too much effort & needs too much maintainance.

Sesman:
Hi, Ted. I came to a similar conclusion and opted for a bright silver satin solution similar to the finish on 80s models. It looks ok, though it may pay to persevere with the polishing lark. See what you think.

Orcade-Ian:
Ted,
Whilst I fully agree that polishing perhaps involves too much effort, although I think the rewards are worth it, I strongly disagree that it needs too much maintenance.  I restored my 350/4 back in 2002 and polished the legs, side covers and other aluminium alloy parts - not to mirror finish, I will admit (they never were when new) No paint, no lacquer.  All I do is give them a quick wipe with Solvol, unless I was intending going out in prolonged poor weather, when I wipe them over with ACF50 and clean it off afterwards.  For 17 years I have lived in Orkney!

This is the bike last September

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Ian

Sesman:
I agree. As as I suggested I think it’s worth persevering with the polishing. Personally I’d go for satin polish rather than a mirror job….just a personal preference. I’ll probably do that if and when the paint falls off.

Johnny4428:
I agree with the guys here regarding a bit of biffing. You will achieve quite a nice Finnish with a fine scotchbrite wheel. And as Ian said once an year clean up with Some metal polish. Just saves on chipped paint which will eventually happen.

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