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plating, anodizing, & finishing Q&As since 1989




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Want most corrosion-proof plating option for Rolls-Royce brake parts

2004

I have a 1976 Rolls Royce that is currently undergoing an entire brake overhaul. Because this car has hydraulics and pumps and hundreds of feet of brake line, it is a mammoth project that I don't want to have to do again for another 50 years. I am a machinist and whenever feasible, I've discarded the original parts and manufactured them out of 316 Stainless steel, but there is only so much I can do. Many of the parts that have been in contact with brake fluid have had the original plating (green cadmium?) start to bubble and flake off, contaminating the brake system. I believe this is due to the hygroscopic tendency of brake fluid to absorb moisture and promote corrosion. What would be the best plating/finishing choice to stave off corrosion? I'm not necessarily worried about the color/sheen of the finished parts as I am not undertaking a concours restoration. Any color would be fine with me as long as it is as permanent as can be. Thanks, Kelly

Kelly Opfar
hobbyist - Orem, Utah, USA

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2004

High phosphorous electroless nickel is being used nowadays to protect brake parts from corrosion by brake fluids. Obviuosly, old corrosion by-products and its effects (pitts and caverns) have to be "cleaned away" by a suitable method, be it polishing, machining, sanding, blasting, welding, etc. About the duration I cannot say if it is going to meet your goal, but if you bought an old RR chances are you are old enough to be concerned about the next 50 years.

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico

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2005

Are you certain the green stuff isn't corrosion products? It is necessary to replace the RR fluid regularly and maintain the cleanliness and dryness of the system without fail.Stainless tubing should do it; clean the reused components carefully and thoroughly. This is all I can offer.

Randy Roberson
- Dubach, Louisiana