Polishing an aluminum valve cover can be a daunting task. There are many different ways to do it, and it can be tricky to get the shine you want. In this article, we will discuss the best way to polish an aluminum valve cover so that it shines like new!
What Are Valve Covers And Why Are They Important?
What Is A Valve Cover?
A valve cover is a metal part that covers the top of an engine’s cylinders. It protects the valves and rocker arms from oil, debris, and other elements that could cause damage. [1]
Types of Valve Covers
There are two types of valve covers: stock and aftermarket.
The main difference between the two is that aftermarket valve covers are often made from aluminum, while stock valve covers are usually made from steel. Aluminum is much easier to polish than steel, so if you’re looking to get a shiny finish on your valve cover, it’s best to go with an aftermarket option.
How To Tell If You Have A Bad Valve Cover?
If your engine is leaking oil, it’s likely that you have a bad valve cover. Oil leaks can be caused by a number of things, but a bad valve cover is one of the most common causes. If you see oil on the ground under your car, or if your engine is low on oil, it’s likely that you have a leaky valve cover.
Another way to tell if you have a bad valve cover is to look for cracks or other damage. If the gasket is damaged, it may not be sealing properly and oil could be leaking out. Also, if there are any cracks in the valve cover itself, oil could be leaking through them. [2]
If you think you might have a bad valve cover, it’s important to get it replaced as soon as possible. A leaking valve cover can cause a lot of damage to your engine if it’s not fixed.
How Much Does A Replacement Valve Cover Cost?
The cost of a replacement valve cover can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
How To Polish Aluminum Valve Cover
If your engine is starting to look a little dull, you may be considering polishing the aluminum valve cover. Polishing an aluminum valve cover can help to restore its shine and luster, making it look new again.
Cleaning Tools & Materials
Before you get started, you’ll need to gather a few supplies. For this project you will need:
- Clean rags or shop towels
- Degreaser (optional)
- Mild soap and water (for degreasing)
- Soft scrub brush (optional)
- Polishing compound
- High speed polisher
- Protective gloves
- Safety glasses
Steps To Polish Aluminum Valve Cover
There are a few different ways that you can go about polishing an aluminum valve cover. You can use a commercial polish, or you can make your own polish using items that you probably already have around the house.
To make your own polish, you will need:
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Water
- A clean cloth
- An old toothbrush (optional)
Step 1: Start by mixing together equal parts of baking soda and vinegar.
Step 2: Add a little bit of water to the mixture and stir until it forms a paste.
Step 3: Use the cloth to apply the paste to the valve cover.
Step 4: Allow the paste to sit on the valve cover for a few minutes.
Step 5: Use the toothbrush to scrub the paste into the surface of the valve cover if needed.
Step 6: Rinse the paste off with water and dry the valve cover with a clean cloth.
You can use this same process to polish other aluminum surfaces as well. Just be sure to rinse the area well afterwards and dry it completely to avoid any water spots.
If you don’t want to make your own polish, there are a number of commercial polishes that you can purchase. Be sure to read the label carefully to make sure that it is safe for use on aluminum surfaces.
Step 1: Start by reading the label on the commercial polish to see if it is safe for use on aluminum surfaces.
Step 2: Apply the polish to a clean cloth.
Step 3: Rub the polish into the surface of the valve cover in a circular motion.
Step 4: Allow the polish to sit on the valve cover for a few minutes.
Step 5: Buff the polish off with a clean, dry cloth.
How to Get Scratches Out of Aluminum Valve Cover
There are a few ways that you can get scratches out of your aluminum valve cover. You can use a polishing compound, sandpaper, or a buffing wheel.
To use a polishing compound, apply a small amount of compound to a clean cloth and rub it into the scratch in a circular motion. Continue rubbing until the scratch disappears. To use a buffing wheel, attach the buffing wheel to your drill and turn it on. Hold the buffing wheel against the scratch and move it in a circular motion. The heat from the buffing wheel will melt the aluminum and fill in the scratch.
Once you have removed the scratch, you can then polish the valve cover to make it shine. To do this, apply a small amount of polish to a clean cloth and rub it into the valve cover in a circular motion. Continue rubbing until the valve cover is shining. You can then remove the excess polish with a clean cloth.
If you have an aluminum valve cover that is scratched, you can easily remove the scratches with a polishing compound, sandpaper, or buffing wheel. Once you have removed the scratches, you can then polish the valve cover to make it shine. Apply a small amount of polish to a clean cloth and rub it into the valve cover in a circular motion. Continue rubbing until the valve cover is shining. You can then remove the excess polish with a clean cloth.
Tips & Warnings
- Wash the valve cover with soap and water before starting to polish. This will help remove any dirt or grime that could be on the surface.
- Polishing aluminum can be a messy process, so make sure to do it in a well-ventilated area.
- Wear gloves while polishing to avoid getting the aluminum dust on your skin.
- If you are using a power drill with a polishing attachment, start at a low speed and gradually increase the speed as needed.
Following these tips will help you get the best results when polishing your aluminum valve cover. Remember to take your time and be careful not to damage the surface. With a little patience, you can have a shiny and new-looking valve cover in no time.
FAQ
Does Toothpaste polish aluminum?
Yes, toothpaste can be used to polish aluminum. You will need to use a non-abrasive toothpaste and rub it into the aluminum in a circular motion. Once you have rubbed the toothpaste into the aluminum, rinse it off with warm water. Your aluminum should now have a shine to it.
What grit sandpaper is best for aluminum?
The best grit sandpaper for aluminum is usually between 120 and 220. depending on how much shine you want to achieve. If your valve cover is very dull, start with 120 grit and work your way up to 220. If it’s only slightly dull, then start with 220 grit. Either way, be sure to use a wet/dry sandpaper so that it doesn’t clog up as quickly.
How do you polish aluminum to a mirror finish?
There are a few different ways that you can polish aluminum to a mirror finish, but the most common method is using a buffing wheel and polishing compound. To start, you’ll want to clean the valve cover with soap and water to remove any dirt or grime. Once it’s clean, attach the buffing wheel to your drill and apply some polishing compound to the surface of the valve cover. Buff the valve cover in a circular motion until you see a glossy, mirror-like finish. If necessary, you can use a higher grit buffing pad to remove any remaining scratches or imperfections.
What can I use to clean the valve cover?
You will need a few things to get started: dish soap, a toothbrush or other small brush, and aluminum polish. You can find aluminum polish at most auto parts stores. Make sure you get the kind that is specifically for aluminum – there are other polishes that may work, but they could also damage the valve cover.
How do you make aluminum shine without polishing it?
One way to make aluminum shine without polishing it is to use a product called Metal Rescue. This product is a rust remover that can also be used to clean and polish metal surfaces. Metal Rescue will remove any oxidation from the surface of the aluminum and will leave it looking shiny and new. Another way to make aluminum shine without polishing it is to use a product called Pinnacle Metal Polish. This polish is designed specifically for metals, and it will remove any tarnish or scratches from the surface of the aluminum.
Pinnacle Metal Polish will also protect the metal from future damage, making it look like new for longer. Neither of these products, you should follow the instructions on the label carefully. Test the product on a small area of the aluminum first to make sure it does not damage the surface. Apply the product to a clean, soft cloth and rub it into the aluminum in a circular motion. Rinse the area with water and dry it with a soft cloth. You should see a noticeable difference in the appearance of the aluminum. If you are not satisfied with the results, you can repeat the process until you are happy with the way it looks. Remember to always read and follow the instructions on all cleaning products before using them.
How do you clean brushed aluminum valve covers?
Assuming your valve cover is already brushed aluminum, you’ll just need to clean it with a mild soap and water solution. You can also use a polishing compound if your valve cover is looking dull. Be sure to rinse the valve cover thoroughly after cleaning or polishing
Can I use wd40 to clean aluminum?
Yes, you can use WD-40 to clean aluminum. However, it is not the most effective cleaner and may not remove all of the dirt and grime. For a more thorough cleaning, use a mild detergent or alcohol-based cleaner.
Can I use vinegar to clean my valve cover?
Yes, you can use vinegar to clean your valve cover. Vinegar is a natural cleaner that will not damage the aluminum. Simply soak a cloth in vinegar and wipe down the valve cover.
Useful Video: How to make your VALVE COVERS SHINE!!!
Conclusions
If you’re looking for an easy way to add a touch of class to your engine bay, polishing your aluminum valve cover is a great place to start. Not only is it a relatively simple process, but it’s also very rewarding. In just a few minutes, you can transform your dull, drab valve cover into a thing of beauty.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and give it a try! You might be surprised at how much satisfaction you get from seeing your own handiwork shining in the sun. Thanks for reading!
References:
- https://www.gmpartscenter.net/blog/valve-covers-explained
- https://mechanicbase.com/engine/valve-cover-symptoms/
- https://www.megagasket.com/en/blog/111-what-is-a-valve-cover-gasket-what-is-the-cost-if-a-valve-cover-gasket-needs-replacing
