Vibratory Polishers

[88ninety9]

Anyone have experience with vibratory polishers? It's time to do something with my valve covers, and I think polishing them is the way to go. I'm not against a little elbow grease, but if I could alleviate some of the process that would be nice. Planning on using either crushed walnut shells or corn cob media.

Question I have is, will this method have any negative effect on the mating surfaces? Thanks in advance

[jimmer009]

A da sander or polisher is usually soft enough that you will be fine. It depends on pad. But your mating surface is going to be a rubber gasket. Not bear metal on bear metal. Or even a small paper gasket. So you will be fine. But a sand blaster with soft media like peanut shells is perfect. You might even want some black beauty type sand to get the old paint and grease off. Shells are what use on brass and softer metals. But just be careful attacking the bottom of valvle cover with a wire wheel. Just keep it moving

[88ninety9]

The covers will be clean to bare aluminum before any polishing happens, I'll have them in the parts washer prior. You're right, the gaskets (oem) should seal right up torqued to spec. If I do use the vp, it will be finished off with fine polishing media and some good ol rubbing compound. Process should be similar to polishing brass for reloads

[Drehmoment]

Die grinder, big compressor with lots of cfm, rouge in various cutting grades , soft and hard cotton flapper wheel on a big bench grinder and polish away. Expect to spend at least one full day or more if you want a true mirror finish.