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Re-chroming bumpers multiple times

Can bumpers be re-chromed more than once? What is the process for stripping the chrome off before re-chroming? Is it chemical?

Trish Moxley
- Laurens, New York
2002

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Yes, bumpers can be chromed more than once. The procedure is indeed chemical, but your question isn't actually asked quite right because the plating is nickel-chrome or copper-nickel-chrome rather than just chrome. Further, an old bumper will probably need polishing and buffing, and perhaps copper plating and mush buffing, to deal with scratching, corrosion and pitting before the plating process is begun. Briefly, re-chroming is certainly doable but involves many steps.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2002

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I suspect you are thinking about doing the job yourself - the simple answer is DON'T. As Ted says, bumpers can be re-chromed more than once, but to get a good job done, you should get a restorer to do it. The job is not easy and involves using a lot of very toxic and corrosive chemicals that are not suitable for home use.

Trevor Crichton
R&D practical scientist
Chesham, Bucks, UK
2002