Cleanup VS repaint

[cfunni]

OK I am sure this has been discussed before, but being new I need to ask. I just traded for my first machine. A Westinghouse WC-96T. (see picture below). Many friends and family members have stated they like it looking old as opposed to refinished to look like new. I have it for more of a conversation piece to go along with other odd stuff I have like an old gas pump, parking meters... OK here is the question. Has anyone had any luck with rubbing or polishing compounds to clean and brighten up the machine vs repainting?

[Kaleid20]

Has anyone had any luck with rubbing or polishing compounds to clean and brighten up the machine vs repainting?

Meguiars makes some great polishing and cleaners that can really make all the difference. You can grab these at hardware or any automotive stores. I see you live in Houston as I do, so head over to ACE or O'Reillys to pick up some. Get a few rubbing pads to apply.

Here was the latest post related to this topic:

http://soda-machines.com/discussions/index.php/topic,15306.20.html

[tkaz]

Personally, I'd just buff out the paint on that machine, you'd be surprised at what you can do with a little elbow grease.  You've got a lot of real estate there, so an electric buffer with a foam pad might be the best bet.

Watch out around the embossing, the paint is usually thin around there and you'll rub it right off.

[Kilroy]

If you don't like the way it comes out after a cleaning, then consider repainting it.

[Eric]

There use to a old thread that Moondawg posted on and used some type of cleaner that will help the white painted area and that rust.. I'm sure he'll chime in. You will be surprised how that will clean up.

[collecture]

Watch out around the embossing, the paint is usually thin around there and you'll rub it right off.

Around any decals as well

[Creighton]

I'll chime in for what to clean the white. It's aersol Aircraft Paint stripper sold at NAPA and such places. Very toxic and tweeky stuff.
Won't help on the rust but will take top layer of grime right off. Read and follow all instructions and practice in a small area's first.

Can't stress enough how quick this stuff will take all the paint off in a New York second. It will burn skin and if you get in your eyes very,very bad.

Safety warning finished. I use it all the time great product just a bit spendy.
Creighton

[davin72]

 Has anyone ever tried a Magic Eraser. Im also an arcade collector and thats what everyone uses to clean the ouside of their machines. It will easily take off years of smoke build up, dirt and oil left from peoples hands. They work like a charm.

[cohammer]

I have good luck with  number 1 or 2 buffing compound. Start out using a hand pad and if you feel good about it use a slow turning electric buffer. You will be happy with the shine you get with buffing wax

[Kilroy]

@davin, they use it on the wood or the glass or chrome?