Chrome Removal

[JeffTepper]

I've got some pieces of aluminum that have been previously chromed. I now want to change from Chrome to a different finish and need to determine if I must have the existing chrome finish completely removed so that the "new" finish bites directly into the metal or whether the chrome can be scuffed up to provide sufficient bite without being removed completely. To compound the situation, the new finish might be paint, powder coat, or a different metal plate, perhaps (brass). My specific questions are:

Do I need to have the chrome removed no matter what?

Depending upon the new finish, it is possible and/or a good idea to leave the chrome intact?

What is the best way to have the chrome removed?

What is the going rate for chrome removal for a piece of aluminum with approximately 48 square inches of surface?

Anyone out there been through this or can otherwise point me in the right direction for answers?

Thanks in advance for any help

Regards, Jeff

 

[Midlife]

You first should determine what finish you want the piece to be, and find someone who can perform that finish. That person or company would be in the best position to advise you as to what should be done with the existing chrome finish.

If you're simply going to paint the piece, a scuff of the chrome is sufficient. Any plating or metallic finish is best referred to the experts involved.

 

[Anonymous]

There is a powder coat that looks like chrome as well as almost any other color you can think of. It may serve your purpose.

 

[66gt350]

I'd try and give a local chrome shop a call. They'd know the best way to remove old chrome from a piece of aluminum.

 

[cmayna]

I totally agree with Midlife. First determine what the final finish will be before you attempt to determine what is needed to prepare the current finish. What parts are we talking about? Valve covers?