Here comes the resident evil-tempered curmudgeon and technological bluestocking again with more grumpy skepticism.
I recognize that my chemistry is not what it once was--but, f'hevvinsake, precisely HOW does rechroming "chemically reactivate acids"? With 1000+ list members, we should have a chemist or two among us. Maybe even one who is a plating specialist. I'd like to hear from one of them on this issue. (I suspect that the word "nonsense" will show up in their replies.)
The simple fact, however, is that things are replated all the time--motorcycle parts, car parts, household items, and so on--and I've never heard this kind of concern applied to them. Corrosion after replating does happen, of course, but is caused by inadequate cleaning, not some kind of "reactivation," whatever that might be.
Steve Maas Dublin, Ireland
Jonathan Cowden wrote:
> This from Vintage Cycle Studios:
>
> "in some cases, redoing existing chrome may chemically reactivate left
> over acids used as part of the original chroming process. These acids
> may cause severe internal tube corrosion that may lead to rust- through
> areas."
>
> Best regards, Jonathan Cowden Carpinteria, Ca
>
>>
>> Let me just comment that Waterford will not re-chrome. I learned this
>> when they were still Schwinn, when they repaired the frame on my
>> formerly all-chrome '65. Gave me my choice of colors and did a lovely
>> job, but not chrome.
>>
>> Last year, when I had the '38 repainted by Waterford, I believe I
>> noticed the same thing on the web site, or when I asked about redoing
>> what had been a chrome fork on that bike. Again, the answer was
>> negative.
>>
>> I suspect there is a reason...
>>
>> harvey sachs
>> mcLean va
>>
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