Here's an alloy tank I did this summer, DA sander, mops, lime powder to detox it and wax. not the best pic but Never tried toothpaste.
I use toothpaste on my medals and brass buttons for parades, it brings metal up really nice due to its very fine abrasion properties needed for teeth.
Get them nickel dipped! I did and don't have the pain of having to polish them just wipe them with a microfiber cloth View attachment 16867