David,
That's a good point. I've been using vintage tubes on frames and they are indeed thicker wall tubing. Most companies that have been plating thinwall steel frames are doing so in violation of the tubing manufacturers specifications. Both metal removal from "heavy" ploishing and heat generated from the friction are not recommended on thinwall tubing. I'm sure I can hand polish such tubes without negative effects because my process is much more under control. Typical polishing is probably not good for those tubes as a rule. Heat treated tubes are best not polished and plated either.
As a sidebar, I was at my plater today and my friend laid some of the best information on polishing on me that I've gotten so far. I can hardley wait for my next opportunity to do some polishing. The "light" finally went on and I think I now know the "inner secrets" of one of the best guys I've ever seen in the plating business. The best part is that it doesn't require any special equiptment; just a few tricks and the proper sequence of steps. Oh yeah, and some elbow grease! It may be nearing time to attempt the rechrome of my 1951 Rene Herse ladies frame which is full chrome and needs to be refinished. That will be quite a challange.
Brian Baylis
La Mesa, CA