“aging” Aluminum

I posted this elsewhere but since it Jeep related I wanted to get it in front of you guys too.
Got some side protection for my old Lucinda and I’m not interested in the shiny aluminum look. I considered painting the aluminum diamond plate but had the idea to try and “age” it first.
Got some Birchwood Casey Aluminum Black and put it on a couple test pieces to see how it worked.

I did minimum prep with steel wool and denatured alcohol to clean and remove oxidation.
Here’s before and after pics.
I’m very happy with the Patina look as it’s exactly what I was looking for.





I think if you wanted a more even finish, it would be achieved with proper, even preparation, but I gave it a quick once over.
Very happy with the results. I’ll move on to the rocker covers and hopefully get similar results on the bigger pieces.

 

That looks great! I think I'll do that on the corner guards on my 71. I think they'd look much better in a weathered looking black.

Just ordered some from Amazon.

 

In Pennsylvania, everything weathers quickly. Lol. I have owned vehicles with so much "patina" that I could see the ground from the driver seat!

 

Here’s the side rocker covers.
I’m happy with this look.
Here’s before and after on Lucinda.