Re: [CR]Anodizing

(Example: Framebuilding:Restoration)

From: <apgmaa@earthlink.net>
To: "cnighbor" <cnighbor@pacbell.net>, <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
References: <3BE5D920.76D3BA1D@pacbell.net>
Subject: Re: [CR]Anodizing
Date: Sun, 4 Nov 2001 18:12:34 -0800


Charles, and CR list:

Yes, it is possible to have aluminum parts reanodized. Most major cities (that have some manufacturing industry) have polishing, chrome plating and anodizing houses that do nothing else.

In the last seven or so years, I've had something like five Campy hubsets (NR & 1996/97 Record 9) , four NR seat posts, and two NR cranksets stripped, and reanodized.

I first bring the parts over to the anodizing house to have the original anodizing stripped (if necessary). I return later with all parts hand polished (using Mother's or Simichrome) for reanodizing.

I bring in the hand polished hub shells with the cups (and ratchet ring, if used) still in, but everything else removed. The anodizing house masks of the steel bearing surfaces with wax, and then anodizes the aluminum to spec. The wax is removed by dunking the part in boiling water. Some light surface rust may occur, which is easily removed by using a cotton swab and a little bit of Mother's polish.

I would start by asking your LBS for recommendations. If they are of no help, you will have to wing it by making a lot of phone book searching and telephone calls.

Most of my small piece work is cash and carry. Bring in a finished sample to show what you want in a finish. Lot charges are typically $40, independent of quantity.

I like the anodized finish; I have an 8 year old Campy NR seatpost which looks virtually new due to the corrosion resistance imparted by anodizing.

regards,

Andrew Gillis (rainy in the AM, dry and sunny in the PM, in Long Beach, CA)