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world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


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Nickel under the chrome

I was wondering if you can leave the nickel after you remove the chrome on aluminum plated wheels.I like the way it looks on my car.If so after you get it clean what would you suggest putting over it to protect the finish if anything at all

Eric Hauser
Hobbyist - Cincinnati Ohio
February 18, 2011

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Diluted pool acid will remove chrome fairly quickly if it is not waxed or has a clear coat. This requires appropriate safety equipment and procedures.
After strip, dry it well and apply a clear coat.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
First of two simultaneous responses -- February 21, 2011

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Chromium plating is easily removed from nickel plate by the use of reverse current in an alkaline solution like an alkaline cleaner. After that it is customary to re-activate the passive nickel surface and to re-chromium plate.

One work of caution, however, when dissolving chromium in an alkaline solution, it dissolves as hexavalent chromium which can create a disposal problem

Lyle Kirman
consultant - Cleveland Heights, Ohio
Second of two simultaneous responses -- February 22, 2011