Aluminum cab trim... Clearcoated?

[Curt80]

So I've polished up my cab trim (about to paint the black stripes) and now I'm wondering if it should be clearcoated or if it was originally raw.  Worried I'll get it all re-installed up and it will go back to its faded white if not coated. Flip side, I'm worries a clear will mess it up.  Anyone had experience with it?

[JohnnyPopper]

I don't know if it came with clear, but keep in mind, it took YEARS to fade out.

I would do clear, just make sure you have no residue of any kind, use brake cleaner before shooting, leaves no residue, dissolve most everything that would interfere with flow.

Painters tip: gently head the can of paint with a blow dryer, shaking well. Two things happen- paint will flow easier, and slight build up of pressure in the can will create a finer spray.

Use blow dryer to warm surface you're painting for same results.

Gloves, even think of suspending it in mid air.

Looks very good BTW!!!

[zieg85]

Be certain, whatever clear coat you choose, sticks to untreated aluminum.  Not all clear coats go directly to aluminum

[DanMcG]

Originally the parts were anodized, not clear coated.
Flitz (and probably other companies) make some sealer/polishes for polished aluminum that would work better then a clearcoat imho.

[Scott91370]

Use pin stripe and wrap it around the back of the pieces.