I'm wondering if the 'high gloss maple' trim can be purchased and replace the shodo aluminum? Wanted to ask if anyone has ever done this or replaced their mape with aluminum?

 

Yes you can.

 

Any ideas how to start? The parts people where I go are very busy and rather curt. They insist on a VIN for anything..

 

Start with a different dealership. Try one of the forum vendors here who may care that you are trying to buy parts and help you. OC Infiniti in the supporting dealer forum is where I'd start. Have your VIN handy.