So I'm heavy into detailing my 05 XJR. The brightwork metal around the door window openings is water mark tarnished (stained). I'm not sure what the metal is, either stainless steel or polished aluminium. I'm wondering if it's chrome that was clear coated and the clear coat has taken on the water marks. I have been all through the detailing posts and the issue is not addressed. Lastly, I have the same issue with the paint but it doesn' jump out at you like this bright work staining.

I have tried in order polish wax, Brasso and just a dab of lacquer thinner. Nothing has touched it yet. Any suggestions before I reach for the steel wool?

 

I'd do a little on line searching before I began to 'steel wool' anything on my car. gordo

 

It might be worth trying some white vinegar and a soft cloth - if they are hard water stains, that will work
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If the other stuff doesn't work, there's a metal polish called Simichrome that is really good stuff and been around for years and years. The brightwork you're talking about is stainless steel. I think I'd hold off on the steel wool if at all possible.

 

Nothing works so far. I've tried the vinegar, rubbing compound , some high powered polishes at a local body shop, Bon Amy, Lime Away and very fine steel wool. The body shop guys said the material is aluminum and they use 0000 fine steel wool on trim, chrome and glass to clean up overspray .

If however, if the material is stainless steel, then I just just recalled a product specifically made for stainless called "The BarKeepers Friend". I used it on stainless sinks some time back with good results. I'll see if I can find it and get back to you on the results. This is becoming a major pain in the butt.

 

If you mean "Barkeepers Friend", I agree - great stuff - I use it on the windows, to clean exhaust tips, etc - haven't used it on brightwork on the XJR because it hasn't needed it. K-Mart sells it around here. http://www.barkeepersfriend.com/
No affiliation, etc
Good luck!
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Okay, here it is. I got the Bar Keepers Friend from the grocery store. I used it following directions being very carefull with the paint and rubber. ie use of painters masking tape.

The stuff removed the haze straight away and left a nice shine. It did not remove the shadow staining. So this is as far as I want to take it. I think any stronger action or chemical runs the risk damaging the chrome or stainless or whatever it is.

Thanks to all