FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

Cleaning Aluminum Truck Tool Boxes??????

Mooney | Posted in General Discussion on November 15, 2005 12:56pm

Im switching trucks for the old one wont make the trip to Laurel Ms. Had to do it sooner than later anyway. The old one has aluminum side boxes and an aluminum ladder rack. Im wondering if I can half butt match a new cross the bed tool box on the loadie?

The old ones are pretty oxidized.

Tim

 

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. DougU | Nov 15, 2005 05:21am | #1

    Who in Gods name are you trying to impress!!!

    1. Mooney | Nov 15, 2005 05:41am | #5

      I HATE TO LOSE THE RACKS AND BOXES.

      But noone .

      I wouldhave figgured yall would have ran into the same thing.

      You musta missed the thread bout the old truck making a long work trip. Lucky to have made it back.

      Tim

       

  2. omnimax | Nov 15, 2005 05:36am | #2

    Take a look at Bar Keepers Friend.  It doesn't list Aluminum specifically, but chrome is listed.  I used this stuff recently on a new stainless sink that had rust spots and the sink looked new when I was done. 

    http://www.barkeepersfriend.com

    1. Mooney | Nov 15, 2005 05:42am | #6

      Where in the h^ll an I going to find that ? LOL

       

       

       

      1. omnimax | Nov 15, 2005 05:51am | #7

        Unfortunately, not at the bar.  Got mine at Linens-N-Things.  It was less than $4. 

      2. DonfromUtah | Nov 15, 2005 08:15am | #8

        Some supermarkets carry it.

  3. Scrapr | Nov 15, 2005 05:36am | #3

    There is some stuff truckers use. Not sure what it is. (a name) But I would start out at a truck stop. Nose around. It's a paste that goes on like wax. Then I think you rub it out. I'm tired now. Gonna go lay down.

     

    I know house cleaners use something called Painless Stainless. Don't think that is apprpriate for exterior use

     

    Make her purty

    1. Pete | Nov 15, 2005 03:12pm | #10

      my dad's a trucker and his aluminum was always sparkling . I believe he used a product called flitz.  (my little brother would remember better since he always got rooked into doing it)

      1. JasonPharez | Nov 15, 2005 09:20pm | #11

        Yah, Flitz will do it but expensive! Better Built (a toolbox co.) makes a liquid product the local Lowe's sells called Truck Brite that is specifically for polished aluminum.

        Also, wash the box first with aluminum wheel wash (Eagle One) and a Brillo pad---just that will do wonders.

        And to keep it looking good, wash and dry the toolbox every time you wash your truck.

        If you decide to polish it, wax it afterwards, too.

        Sorry, I used to be a pro detailer, and my crew says my work truck is the "cleanest work truck" they've ever seen.Jason Pharez Construction

           Framing & Exterior Remodeling

  4. User avater
    AaronRosenthal | Nov 15, 2005 05:39am | #4

    Hit a motorcycle shop. They have used a cleaner/polisher for alloy stuff for years. I've forgotten the spelling but it sounds like "Solviol", or something like that.
    Expensive as heck for it's size, but my, oh my, does it do a job!

    Quality repairs for your home.

    AaronR Construction
    Vancouver, Canada

     

  5. Hazlett | Nov 15, 2005 02:43pm | #9

     Tim,

     when I worked as an industrial hard chrome plater---we used a cleaner called ZUD---available at the grocery store---right next to the Comet-----it's non- abrasive, contains some mild  oxalic acid I think----probably  about a buck or so---might clean that thing right up

     Stephen

  6. doodabug | Nov 17, 2005 02:43am | #12

    Mother's makes a paste for aluminum.

    1. Mooney | Nov 17, 2005 03:29am | #13

      Mothers?????????????????

       

      1. CAGIV | Nov 17, 2005 04:14am | #14

        http://www.mothers.com/

        You can usually find them at most chain auto part stores, at least around here.

         

        1. Mooney | Nov 17, 2005 04:17am | #15

          Thankee

          And by the way,

          A belated congraulations .

          Tim

           

          1. CAGIV | Nov 17, 2005 04:25am | #16

            Thanks, and good luck.

            I'm torn between thinking this is something I would do and calling you a pre-madonna ;)

             

          2. Mooney | Nov 17, 2005 05:34am | #17

            Well with out pictures;

            Ive got just about everything I can get out of a 92 model silverado. I feel its so bad that I wont sell it. Ill kkep it for a jeep and a trash and firewood hauler. Ill use it to four wheel where I dont care . It used to burn a qt every tank but ever since I took it away from home and pushed it [got it hot I think becuse of the smell but the temp gauge didnt show it] its been burning two qts per tank and smokes every time I start it . Before it was just a little in the morning cold. Airconditioning , radio  parking lights are out . Winsheild is cracked and theres no longer a tail gate since it went one on one with a tree . The head liner is falling down and has thumb tacks holding it up but is losing the battle. I bought it new and it has had the construction life plus pulling trailers hard since I was in the produce business too. Doug thought I was trying to impress someone so now he can laugh. Thats what I drive to work everyday. Im pretty frugal trying to save my retirement .

            I bought a 96 GMC 4x4 several years ago and its my town truck with very little miles put on it by me . Ill never buy another new one . Its a pretty sharp old truck although its had its 10th birthday. I restored it , but its time for it to pay for its keep all these years which it hasnt one time went to work.

            Problem is that the side boxes are the tune of about 500 with out looking and I like um. The racks are aluminum too and they are several hundred, dont remember exactly . I wouldnt be surprized if replacement of the three would cost 1000 together and theirs nothing wrong with them except oxidation. Nother problem is that they need to look pretty good to go on the old truck Im kinda proud of anyway. <G>

            Now Ill be lookin for another town truck to restore . Just like houses .

            Tim

             

          3. CAGIV | Nov 17, 2005 04:53pm | #18

            A 1000 might be a little lite, When I bought my boxes, the cross over was 550, the side boxes were 300ish each and the rack I didn't get was about 750 or so....

            Depending on how "new" you're looking for I'd at least look around, Seem's GM is having some good deals right now, and most of the domestic auto makers have a program to rebate back money you spend on accessories like boxes and racks, When I bought mine, Ford called it an "Up-lift" package.

      2. doodabug | Nov 18, 2005 01:11am | #19

        I take it you are not a gearhead.

        1. Mooney | Nov 18, 2005 02:21am | #20

          hahahaha , nope .

          Tim

           

          1. User avater
            JeffBuck | Nov 18, 2005 02:39am | #21

            ditto the Flitz with .... the ball and a drill.

            Jeff

                 Buck Construction

             Artistry In Carpentry

                 Pittsburgh Pa

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

Pros of Apprenticeship Programs

Apprenticeship programs can be a valuable tool for residential builders to recruit, train, and retain skilled employees, offering a structured pathway for career advancement and equity in the trades.

Featured Video

Micro-Adjust Deck-Baluster Spacing for an Eye-Deceiving Layout

No math, no measuring—just a simple jig made from an elastic band is all you need to lay out a good-looking deck railing.

Related Stories

  • FHB Podcast Segment: Repairing an Old Home While Maintaining Its Integrity
  • Tools and Gear for the Moms Who Get it Done
  • An Easier Method for Mitered Head Casings
  • Beat the Heat: Cool Innovations

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers
  • Issue 327 - November 2024
    • Repairing Damaged Walls and Ceilings
    • Plumbing Protection
    • Talking Shop

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 81%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data