This is what I would recommend. comes from the high-end auto detail trade. It's great! See my pic.

http://www.zainobros.com

No doubt about it, Zaino is the Sh#t, but the picture of the particular Zaino polish shown (Actually a Poly sealant) basically contains nothing for bringing up the shine, or I should more properly say restoring a shine on dulled surfaces.

The Novus polishes would be a better starting point in removing haze, dulling, and very minor scratches-swirls. I'd even try something after the Novus such as 3M Imperial Hand Glaze, or Meguiars #7 Glaze, or #9 Swirl remover.

If possible, your best results will come from carefully removing all chrome hardware, otherwise, you will see your efforts wasted, in that you'll never be able to properly polish-buff the areas next to the lugs, and other hardware. Of course, don't go so far, and start ripping off badges, unless you wish to destroy the vintage value of these drums.

Then as a last step, yes, then the Zaino will be the ultimate finishing touch. Apply, and let it sit a very long time (1/2 hour-1 hour). The longer, the better for the Zaino to cure to the finish.

I've used this Zaino on my expensive. pristine Fender Bass Guitars, and this stuff is also the cat's meow on items like museum quality Dust Covers for high quality Turntables.

As for the chrome, try to avoid Steel Wool at all costs, unless the Drums were resurrected from the Titanic. Use something like a high quality liquid Chrome Polish, or a paste such as Flitz, 200MPH, or perhaps one from Mothers, or Meguiars. hope this helps, Mark

I have used automotive grade 2000 grit wet sanding liquid (with all hardware removed) with a small electric buffer then rinsed it and used Novus plastic polish. It removes the filth and grime and the Novus brings back the shine. Just don't stay one one spot too long, it works great... even on WMP!Yes Sir

For your Chrome i have tried alot of stuff but this product is simply brilliant on removing oxidation and restoring a almost perfect shine and luster..

"Dimond Brite" Truck Box Polish Restores shine to aluminum,brass,chrome,and stainless steel made by Better built..

and for restoring shine on vintage drums i use fuller brush appliance cleaner and wax,#754 it too is simply great.. and it has no armour all type chemicals which will make your drum wrap brittle....ever wonder why your dash cracked ?? stay away from any waxes that do not dry clear .. have fun

This is right on the money! I have a buddy who's dad owns a bodyshop and I have done this same thing....a sander with a super fine grade paper -this is what they do with your car too. Then take it to the buffing wheel and it shines like the day it was wrapped. Naturally, this only works with wrapped kits. But it works great. AND yes...don't hold the drum on the buffing wheel too long - it will burn

Correct me if im wrong.If you polish up a 40 yr old kit to look new,do you not de-value that drum from its vintage aging process?...Im of the opinion you leave these old drums to fade away,sort of speak.

Hmmmmm never thought of that...guess I need to park my 69 camaro out to let oxidation take over - NOT!

Sorry....I thought this was a drum forumViolin

Question for the wet sanders. I just got a WMP Slingerland mid '60's club set that is yellowed. After reading this thread, I am intrigued by the possibility of seeing it be white again. How smart (dumb?) would it be for a first time wet sander with no experience to tackle this as their first project?

I just stumbled onto this forum. It is great! Lots of really useful info. Thanks all.

what is wet sanding?