5 Tools You Need To Properly Polish Aircraft

Your aircraft is your pride and joy. Not only does it deserve some TLC from time to time, but it needs it. Without proper care and maintenance of aviation, it can quickly become susceptible to many damaging elements, with corrosion and oxidation being two of the worst. The best place to start is with polishing but just any won’t do.  There are also some tools required to ensure you’re following the proper steps for stunning and efficient polishing of your aircraft.

Drill/Polisher

While you may be able to get away with polishing some of your belongings by hand, doing so on aviation is going to be a long, daunting and even exasperating task. So, never start the job without a drill (polisher) that has a good, strong motor. There are many to choose from, with just as many different prices. Some are smaller and handheld, and others are larger, angled and can reach the nooks and crannies of your aircraft. Find one that suits your needs, and you will be thankful you did so. That’s also not to mention that without a drill, you simply can’t polish aviation to the high quality standards that are required to keep it in its best working order.

High Quality Polish

To put it simply, you can’t polish aviation properly without high quality polish. Sure, you may save a couple of dollars by picking up a can of polish from the corner store but it will end up costing you much more in the end. Remember, your aircraft is your pride and joy – and likely, an expensive one. So, it’s important to treat it with nothing less than high quality products. The best aircraft polishes contain metal friendly materials, and are powerful enough to tackle the dirt, scuffs, scratches and even corrosion, yet gentle enough for the metals being scrubbed.

Buffing Pad

Now it’s time to put in a little bit of elbow grease. High quality buffing pads will effectively provide for all your brightwork and paint polishing needs. Whether you need to immediately diminish oxidation, take care of regular wear and tear, or smooth out deep scratches, a buffing pad can do the job. It’s recommended to purchase buffing pads that can be washed and reused time and time again so you get more bang for your buck. Just be sure to consider the type of buffing pads purchased and the polisher being used to ensure that they can be used together.

Wax Ball

Grab a wax ball and start waxing. They’re excellent for further buffing of scuffmarks, light scratches, tarnish, pitting and even corrosion, and will add a layer of protection. Depending on the type of wax ball you get, you may be able to use it on many other items other than your aircraft as well. Typically, they can be used to buff and polish all painted surfaces, fiberglass, metals, plastics and acrylic sheets. But again, make sure the wax ball you purchase fits the drill (polisher) being used.

Cotton Terry Cloth

It’s time for the final touch. Cotton Terry Cloths are used across several industries because they can safely and effectively complete a good polishing. Use a Terry Cloth with the final buff to get a desirable shine, protection and sealant. They can also be used for cleaning interior surfaces or drying the exterior of your aviation, so you will be getting plenty of use out of this product. They’re soft and superfine, and will illuminate your aircraft.
Regular care, cleaning and maintenance is required to keep aircraft looking the best, and more importantly, operating properly. A damaged exterior can be more than just unsightly; it can be exceptionally dangerous. Corrosion and pitting can significantly sacrifice the strength and structure of aviation. So, never skip out on that well-needed TLC. Grab the best aircraft polishes with these must have tools, and keep your aviation soaring.