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Chrome Removal Question

I have a chrome plated snare drum with matching chrome rims and hardware. I would like to either paint over the chrome or remove the chrome completely so that I can paint it a matte color. Does anyone know of a way to treat the chrome so that paint will adhere to it or an easy and inexpensive way to remove the chrome? Also, is there a specific type of paint or brand that I should use that will withstand the impact of hard playing on the snare?

Chris Robinette
- Richwood, New Jersey

There is no paint that will withstand the impact of hard playing; therefore science demands that you play those drums very softly and quietly.

You will need to remove the chrome, which can be done by dipping for about half a minute in muriatic acid [affil links]. But this is a dangerous material to work with, or even have hanging around, so it would be better to take your drum to a plating shop.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

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