Guys,
I want to convert my grille into a 'three bar' one (I will have no problem with that), then have it spray chromed. What I need to know is: I've heard that some of the plastic (re)chroming systems will tend to 'yellow out' after time. I read somewhere that the SpectraChrome system may do this. I don't want to go to all the trouble to modify mine, then have it turn yellow later after chroming.
Does anyone have any knowledge of this happening???
Thanks for your opinions...
Mo

 

Great question. I would like to know as well!
Thanks for bringing this up

 

I would recommend fully dechroming it first. Then do any modifications to the plastic and have it re-chromed.

Not all chrome shops will do plastic, and fewer still will dechrome plastic, although you can do it yourself. If you find a shop that will chrome plastic, consult with them about what type of filler material (epoxy, etc) will take the process if you decide to fill any of the gaps. Also, any surface imperfections you create will be much more apparent when the chrome is on.

If you don't know, actual chrome isn't used much on brightwork anymore... the finish is a bonding agent on the plastic, then copper, and nickel on top.

I'm sure there are some old school guys around here that could tell you more.

 

this is pretty cool!

http://classiccars.about.com/b/2008/...stic-parts.htm

 

Dracos,
I've had an oldtimer tell me that you don't need to de-chrome first... He said to rough the plastic chrome up real good with 360 grit, (being careful to get all of it), then use adhesive promoter, then filler primer, then sand it with 1000 grit...
I don't see how adding epoxy to fill any gaps (where the bars are removed) before the adhesive promoter would interfere with the actual rechroming???
I've found a place in Sacramento, Ca. that says they can do the plastic chrome. I failed to ask them about the epoxy, though... I'll call 'em tomorrow...
Thanks everyone for the opinions/comebacks...

Mo

 

Powder coating has chrome now//right?

 

Woody,
I didn't think to check that out. There's a local guy here; I'll ask him tomorrow...
Mo

 

How would they go about heating the plastic without melting it? I thought that powder coating required something in the 500F range, I may be totally wrong about that.

 

donbrew,
A good question. Do you think the plastic would deform @ 500°??
Mo

 

Even if the original Grille could handle 500 degrees not to sure about all of the patch work .....