How to care for anodized aluminum mast

[Marty McOmber]

Hello,

I recently purchased a 1989 Island Packet 38, with an Isomat Spar. It is adodized aluminum (not painted). I currently have the spar unstepped (the boat was trucked from Mexico).

Before I restep the spar, I'd like to clean it. Any recommedation on materials and techniques? I don't want to harm the anodization.

Thanks,

Marty

[Gashmore]

From the Aluminum Anodizing Council: 1) No acids or caustics. 2) No chlorinated solvents. 3) No hard rubbing with coarse abrasives; the finer grades of Scotchbrite pads or Pumice powder are OK, sandpaper or steel wool are not. One recommended technique is to use an abrasive cleaning sponge with mild dish washing liquid. 5) Mild soap is preferable to detergent for routine cleaning.

There is a product called Everbrite that we use to restore the color on anodized window frames that seems to do a good job of restoring the finish. We get about 7 years on store front windows. A little less on door frames. In a high UV salt environment you will probably get less.

[Robbie.g]

+1
Fine scotchbrite and water mixed with elbow grease works well...

[Marty McOmber]

Thanks all.

I'm sticking with the safe and sure -- scotchbrite and elbow grease. We brough home a half dozen of the white scotchbright pads from Mexico, so will likely use those to clean the spare.

Best,

Marty