How to Clean an Aluminum Diamond Plate Toolbox
by Robin HewittAluminum diamond plate toolboxes are great, especially when they're installed in the back of a pickup truck. The downside is that the diamond plate pattern is a dirt magnet and must be cleaned regularly to maintain their shiny good looks. Cleaning an aluminum diamond plate toolbox can be a quick and pain free chore if you have this sneaky trick up your sleeve; in a few minutes your toolbox will be gleaming and you'll be back in business.
Step 1
Pour a can of cola onto the top of the tool box, using a paper towel or rag to distribute the cola evenly over the aluminum diamond plate. Let stand for five minutes.
Step 2
Scrub the plate briskly with a stiff scrub brush; the dirt and grime will come off immediately.
Step 3
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of clean water; taking care to remove all traces of cola from the diamond indentations. Dry with paper towels or a clean cotton rag, or allow to air dry.
Step 4
Apply a high quality aluminum wax in an even coat according to the manufacturer's specifications, making sure you reach all crevices and indentations in the diamond plate; allow to dry.
Step 5
Buff your waxed aluminum diamond plate toolbox by hand or with a powered buffer until it is polished and shiny. This will prevent grime from building up and allow you more time between cleanings.
Tips
- Pour the cola on a truck tool box at a self-serve carwash before cleaning your tires or prewashing.
Things You'll Need
- Can of cola
- Stiff scrub brush
- Aluminum wax
- Buffer
Writer Bio
Robin Hewitt began her writing career in 2008. She is the coauthor of several books, including "The Joyous Gift of Grandparenting," which covers the nutritional and fitness needs of both grandchildren and grandparents.
