1963 Brake Booster Finish, vin xxxxx7421, late Jan 63 birthday

[Christopher P.]

Judging guide says in 1963 the power brake booster is normally cadmium plated. Mine is not, but rather a silver color, not painted or polished but a medium silvery finish. In my discussions months ago with the previous owner, he provided me with a lengthy explanation of this finish and its correctness, but of course, I have forgotten the details. Can someone please provide me with the correct terminology for the finish I have so poorly described? I appreciate the help. Chris

Photo:

[Joe R.]

Re: 1963 Brake Booster Finish, vin xxxxx7421, late Jan 63 birthday

Chris,

The finish you have is noted as bright cad or clear cad. Later 64 and up boosters have a yellow chromate finish.
Platers of cadmium have different results from day to day as the chemicals change as used, temperature changes and humidity changes. Some batches may be bright as yours and some may be dull and look white and rather rough.
GM used what came thru the doors in bulk and they were not the greatest on quality control. They were experts at taking parts in the front door and turning out Corvettes at the back door! That's what made them the number one manufacturer of cars until Mr. Toyota come along!!!

JR

[John D.]

Re: 1963 Brake Booster Finish, vin xxxxx7421, late Jan 63 birthday

Good answer Joe Ray. Yes Cad plating is an inconsisent art so it seems. In the AM when they plater the brightener in the parts almost look like fake chrome. As the day goes on the parts come out more dull.
Chris your booster looks correct.
Could also be zinc without the last step that gives it the blue hue.
DOwn the road when we can't get much cadmium plating down I expect that the dull zinc will be our only recourse. John

P.S. Nice looking engine compartment.