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Discussion Topic:
Stainless vs Chrome
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Danny/Texas |
01-19-2010 @ 2:41 PM
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Member
Posts: 23
Joined: Nov 2009
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When you have some bad stainless finish, can it be chromed or is that a no no?
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Stroker |
01-19-2010 @ 3:04 PM
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Senior
Posts: 1460
Joined: Oct 2009
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Old saying go's: "If it won't run, Chrome It". Seriously, stainless is not a "finish" per-se. Stainless is the base metal. The "finish" on stainless is achieved by either "brushing" or polishing this component. Unless the part is severely damaged, dented or cracked, a simple arbor wheel buffing with rouge or tripoli will bring it back. Chrome is not a viable solution.
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supereal |
01-20-2010 @ 10:46 AM
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Senior
Posts: 6819
Joined: Oct 2009
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I agree with Dan. You can "ding" out minor dents in original stainless, then file and sand the area before buffing with a succession of wheels and compounds. I say "original", because most repro trim is too thin to repair and buff. We polish trim with the wheel held in a drill press, and turned at high speed. If you do this, wear heavy gloves, and proceed very slowly. If the wheel grabs the trim, it can damage the piece, and you! Given time and patience, "rustless" (stainless) can be made mirror bright. Eastwood sells a good set of wheels and rouge.
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