M-Shine: Polished Aluminum Cleaner
Polished aluminum looks incredible—when it’s clean. But road grime, brake dust, salt, and oxidation can quickly dull that mirror finish. That’s where M-Shine comes in. Designed specifically for raw, polished aluminum surfaces, M-Shine is a fast-acting acid-based cleaner that restores shine, cuts through buildup, and prepares metal for polishing or sealing.
Whether you’re maintaining fuel tanks, wheels, or trailer trim, M-Shine is the go-to solution for brightening bare aluminum safely and efficiently.
Shop M-Shine: Polished Aluminum Cleaner
What Is M-Shine?
M-Shine is an acid-based aluminum brightener formulated to safely clean and restore raw, uncoated polished aluminum. Unlike traditional degreasers or soaps, M-Shine chemically reacts with oxidation and contaminants, lifting them from the metal surface without aggressive scrubbing.
It’s ideal for:
- Polished aluminum wheels
- Fuel tanks
- Trailers and fenders
- Steps, bumpers, and trim
- Polished stacks or diamond plate
⚠️ Note: M-Shine is not for painted, coated, or anodized aluminum.
💡 Key Features & Benefits
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Polished Aluminum Safe | Brightens and restores bare metal without damaging the finish |
| Strong Acid Blend | Cuts through oxidation, salt residue, brake dust, and buildup |
| Spray-On, Rinse-Off | Quick application with no need for brushing or agitation |
| Pre-Polish Prep | Ideal first step before mechanical polishing or sealing |
| Foamer or Pump-Spray Use | Compatible with most spray and foam systems |
How to Use Chem-X M-Shine
Surface Safety First
Before applying M-Shine, confirm the aluminum is:
- Raw and polished (not painted, powder-coated, or clear-coated)
- Cool to the touch
- Not in direct sunlight
Application Instructions
- Dilute M-Shine (see below) in a pump-up sprayer or downstream foamer
- Spray evenly onto the aluminum surface from bottom to top
- Let dwell for 30–60 seconds—do not let it dry
- Rinse thoroughly from top to bottom with clean water
- Repeat if necessary, especially on heavy oxidation
Dilution + Application Recommendations
| Application | Suggested Dilution |
|---|---|
| Brush Application | Start at 100:1 with water in a bucket, adjust strength as necessary. For very heavy oxidation apply M-Shine undiluted. Apply with brush and rinse thoroughly. |
| Foam Cannon Application | 1 part M-Shine : 3 parts water Adjust metering knob to the minimum setting. Foam onto vehicle, brush surface and rinse thoroughly. Adjust strength as necessary. |
| Power Washer Application | Pour 1 Gallon of M-Shine Concentrate into bucket and add 3-4 gallons of water. Apply Soap through Power Washer. Brush surface and rinse thoroughly. Adjust strength as necessary. |
⚠️ Always spot-test before full application. Overuse or high concentration on sensitive metals can cause streaking or etching if not rinsed promptly.
Recommended Equipment
M-Shine works best with:
- Brush Application
- Foam Cannon—Chrome Cannon 2.0 recommended
- Power Washer Setup
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Pre-wet the surface with cool water before applying M-Shine for more controlled reaction
- Work in small sections to avoid over-drying on hot or windy days
- Use M-Shine as a first step before polishing with Smokey Red or Bandit Blue
- After rinsing, dry the surface with compressed air or a microfiber towel to prevent spotting
❌ What Not to Do
- Do not use on anodized, painted, or powder-coated aluminum
- Do not let M-Shine dwell too long—rinse within 60 seconds
- Do not apply to hot surfaces or in direct sunlight
Final Thoughts
M-Shine: Polished Aluminum Cleaner is the perfect solution for restoring clarity and shine to uncoated aluminum surfaces. Whether you’re maintaining show trucks, polishing fuel tanks, or brightening trailer trim, M-Shine delivers fast, effective results without damaging your finish.
For next-level brilliance, pair it with Smokey Red Heavy Cut Polish and Bandit Blue Finish Cut Polish for a full aluminum restoration routine.