Does anyone know how to chrome stuff

[Charles1]

I want to chrome out my engine bay right. Though the only thing i think off is chrome spray paint but i actually want to do it right does anybody know what are the process of chromeing things. or am i just better of buying the spray paint.

 

[guedo512]

chrome you really shouldnt do yourself. ever watch the chopper shows on discovery channel? a few times they showed chroming. its not a complicated process, but the cleaning is the most important step.

i think they start by cleaning the object in solution then place it in a water bath then clean again. next i believe they nickel plate the object then dip it in the chrome. i am not completely sure so dont hold me to these steps. dont buy the spray paint, i doubt you will get an authentic chrome look that you want.

 

[2-0turbo]

Check out Caswell Plating They have tons of good info. I have their book and highly recommend it if you are considering to pursue this as a hobby.

 

[al5dsm]

Why not just polish it? It still comes out with the shiny look and gets the attention of people when you pop your hood.

 

[Charles1]

ok i will check out that site. also for the guy who said polishing how does that work

 

[al5dsm]

PM 'Tom Sawyer' on this board, hes real good at, even his Type S is polished.

 

[super95awd]

Polishing isn't hard at all as long as you have a nice buffer. Caswell Plating has a good walkthrough on their site. I have tons of stuff polished in my engine bay like my thermo housing, main water pipe, throttle body, stuff like that. I would suggest that as well before going the DIY chroming route.

 

[TBSpyder]

Don't waste your time or money on the chrome "spray paint'. It looks nothing like real chrome. Very cheap and tacky.

 

['96_Talon_TSi]

Chrome plating is similar to annodizing. Dangerous stuff to use unless you enjoy playing with electricity and acid.

 

[Defiant]

Things that get hot look better for longer with the "near-chrome" powdercoating. Real chrome will turn colors, from straw to blue.