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How to remove chrome from a late stock Harley Davidson springer front end

I need to remove chrome from a late HD front end without damaging the base metal, including the springs, so that they may be powdercoated. Local chrome plater said they sand it off,not sand-blast it off or bathe it off, in prep for powdercoating. This sounds potentially damaging to the base metal and I cannot afford to weaken the front end for safety reasons (ie, I value my life). Tried and true suggestions appreciated.

Val Gene Goldston
hobbyist/motorcyclist - Houston, Texas, US
2007

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2007

Muriatic acid will take it off, but it might cause a problem with the life of the spring.
Anodic lye requires close monitoring but does not cause hydrogen embrittlement like the acid does. Bake after strip at 375F for 4 hours is a great idea.
The powder coat shop will probably zinc phosphate before paint and might do a light preblast before that for some additional "tooth" for the paint.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida

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You might be a little overcautious on this Val, it might be worthwhile to call the manufacturer and get their opinion. Sanding the chrome off shouldn't hurt these forks.

Sheldon Taylor
supply chain electronics
Wake Forest, North Carolina
2007

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