TOPIC:

I have a pair of these that are good except the chrome is bubbled, about to start peeling.

I see three options:

1. Strip and paint "chrome"
2. Send out to one of the few firms that will chrome plastic
3. Cast a new set in Aluminum and polish/clear coat them

I know some folks have done 1.

I am guessing 2 is $$$.

I can do 3, but it is a fair amount of work. I probably cannot get away with using my originals as patterns because of shrinkage, and in aluminum they probably need to be a bit thicker if they are going to get polished. So that means 3D modeling them, printing and then finishing to make the patterns. The rougher I let the patterns go, the less work they are (but polishing is then more work). The casting effort depends on if I have other parts I need to do anyway. Polishing is a PITA.

Comments/Suggestions?

Does anyone know if the original process was Vacuum Metalizing or actual Chrome Plated?

I called Chrome Tech USA. Rob told me they were electroplated because Vacuum Metalizing would not peel. He said he does not recommend Vacuum Metalizing for exterior parts. He had no suggestions on a plater.