Need some help cleaning an aluminum boat

[Big Slick]

I just got my Grandpa's old Hiawatha 12' aluminum fishing boat. It is still very sea-worthy for being 45 years old but I would like to clean it up a bit. Anyone know of a good, strong aluminum cleaner?

[Bobby Bass]

Give it a good scrubbing with any boat hull cleaner to get the scum line off. But what you are faced with is a lot of good old back breaking hand work. Dirt will not be your problem it will be the aluminum oxidation over time. I have a alum hull boat and I use a alum polish cleaner you use for cleaning wheels. From the karate kid, wax on wax off is how you will have to clean it. Apply in small sections and buff with clean towels to remove old deposits. Power buffer will help. As far as I know there is nothing out there you can wash on and clean it. The polish once it is done will help make it easier to clean the next time you do it. I clean mine every year, I can't imagine what 45 years of memories will be like to clean off.

[Big Slick]

 "I can't imagine what 45 years of memories will be like to clean off."

Your right, it stays the way it is.

Besides, it looks like a lot of work.