Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


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Rechroming motorcycle items at home

How do I rechrome items for my motorbike, and what would I need to set up a rechroming unit for my own use.

Thanks,

Steve
engineer - Notts, England
2004

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Hi, Steve. The short answer is that you don't have to rechrome them at home if you don't want to, because there are jobshops throughout England that do this kind of service. But you may wish to see our "Chrome Plating FAQs" to acquire a feel for what is involved.

The longer answer is that chrome plating books fill entire shelves of technical libraries, and beyond the FAQs, we can't summarize it in a couple of paragraphs. You probably need permits to buy the toxic chemicals required (chromium plating requires concentrated chromic acid, also known as hexavalent chromium). It varies from country to country and town to town, but you may legally need training before you can begin, even if it's a hobby.

Please see our "must have" booklist and try to get access to a couple of books on chrome plating (your library may have them). You won't necessarily have to read them cover to cover to get an appreciation for the issues involved, but a few hours of paging through and you'll have a great beginning. Good luck!

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2003