Cleaning Dataplates

[KiwiKev]

I realise its not a CMP or even Commonwealth based however the best overall knowledge seems to reside here, so hence my questions.
Recently I picked up my latest toy a 1940 4x4 GMC ACK352 ex USMC.
My question is how do I clean the dataplate to make it more readable, and look presentable.
The plate is an aluminium plate with black face and slightly raised aluminium letters for the categories with stamped blanks areas for the data, if all that makes sence. If you wipe the surface with a damp rag it cleans it a little for a short period of time, the clouds back over.

Also as it's a different plate to the nomal 6x4 / 6x6 GMC's does anyone know were I would go to have a reproduction one made?
Below is a photo of the truck

Regards
Kevin
Auckland New Zealand
Too many Rovers and not enough space for the real MV's

[Pete Ashby]

Kev

try wiping with Coke and some fine wire wool, be sure to wash the plate with plenty of clean water when you have finished

Pete
PS Nice truck by the way

[Rolf S. Ask]

Kevin

I guess that is a very interesting truck you have got, althoe not a CMP as you say..

I recomend you have a look at the GMC site, there you will get plenty of information and hint and tips on GMC's in general

Have a look at http://www.cckw.org/phpbb2/index.php

if you do not know the forum alredy.

Chers from sunny Norway

Rolf

[Ian Pullen]

Kev, Ive had some success with molasses baths in cleaning parts. Mix 1 part molasses to 2 parts water and soak for a week or two. Or even longer. I've left items in a molasses bath for over a month and it came out excellent. It is also successful in rust removal. True...... When they come out they are almost ready to prime after a thorough wash in water and dry. Sounds primative I know. But it has worked successfully with a large number of parts both ferrous and non ferrous and of varying sizes. Hope it works......

[chris vickery]

Kevin, your problem is that you have zinc or aluminum oxide on your plate. It is merely a film which must be removed without damaging the paint underneath.
I have always used some toolmakers diamond rubbing compound. It is an extremely fine paste like abrasive, like toothpaste. If you go delicately with a small amount on a soft towel, you will be pleasantly suprised to see how well it removes the tarnish. After, if you like, spray the plate with some clear matte laquer.

[mike mckinley]

hi kevin

i have used a product called meguires all purpose metal polish with decent results. it is a past like goop that smalls like coconut, and leaves a protective finish. wipe on, and wipe off.

cheers!!
mike