I recently acquired an old JDM Daiwa CV-Z 105L. One of the sideplates has many tiny scratches - boat rash I guess.  Since Plat has already stopped stocking this part, I try to repair it myself. I have tried some 2K grit wetsanding, some 3M Trizact 5K grit, and some Meguiar's ScratchX polisher, but none really worked. The surface seems machine cut/milled.  Any idea how I can fix/alleviate it? Thanks!

 

 

Without being familiar with  the component the aluminum is more than likely clear anodized with scratches penetrating the coating. Polishing is only removing the anodized surface protecting the aluminum.

Tom

 

41 minutes ago, newapti5 said:

One of the sideplates has many tiny scratches

The face was cut/turned on a lathe, so the only practical way to recreate the tooling bias is to sand/polish it on a lathe. However, you'll remove both the anodize and probably the etched lettering when removing the deep scratches. Applying a clear coat afterward like ProtectaClear will save the aluminum from future oxidation and will provide a measure of scratch protection.

ProtectaClear | Durable Surface Protection | Everbrite Coatings - Commercial