Fiberglass and Streaks - Power Wash Network "The Power Wash Contractors Forum"

Fox-Ind · #1 (**permalink**) 03-17-08

I have a quick question on an aluminum trim on a fiberglass body truck. I have streaking that is a few years old and unable to remove?

Any tips or tricks... I have been reading and searching no luck?

Thanks, Josh
Fox-Ind

Larry L. · #2 (**permalink**) 03-17-08

Is the streaking brown in colour or white?

Are you sure it is aluminum and not a cheap stainless steel,where is the trim?Is it the trim on the front of the body or the one running along the bottom edge?

Fox-Ind · #3 (**permalink**) 03-18-08

Wish I had pics... They are white cube vans with what looks to be an aluminum trim that runs the lower half. There is a grey streaking that has, I think, penetrated the fiberglass. Not anything that is on the surface?

I have tried some test areas with various cleaners, bleach, and heavy scrubbing. The customer is not real keen about acids, and I am not familiar enough to try yet. It is a new customer and we are trying to fix the last guys neglected areas.

Thanks for any info... Josh

Larry L. · #4 (**permalink**) 03-18-08

Ok so the streaks are in the FG and not the trim itseft.

It sounds like its oxid'sion from the Alum. trim b/c no streaks are above the trim right?Chemicals are like tools each has its place in this trade and Alum. needs to be cleaned with acid at times to keep the oxid'sion from building up.More than likely its been on there so long its stained into the FG and acid may not be able to remove it.You could try a degreaser and brush....The grey is metal run off.A good cutting compound and buffer but you'll remove more paint with it then what acid would.
Becareful with bleach b/c it cann't be mixed with alot of other chemicals,people have been hurt mixing bleach with other chemicals.

Fox-Ind · #5 (**permalink**) 03-18-08

I am going to try the buffing... I have had luck with that, never crossed my mind.

Thank you very much!

apallclean · #6 (**permalink**) 04-13-08

I agree with Larry L. on this one. I would try acid. Doesn't have to be mixed real strong if your worried about it. It will just take more times to get it right.

Fox-Ind · #7 (**permalink**) 04-13-08

I have been doing alot more reading on acid and feel more comfortable about trying it. we will see this week.