1966 Center Console - Rechroming

[Steven J.]

I'm restoring my center console with fresh paint and a new center console insert. There is some pitting of the chrome so I'm considering sending it off to be cleaned up (pitting removed) and rechromed. One point that I've been cautioned about is to not lose the texture in the area that is "leathered" since I do plan to have the car judged.

I know to be careful when applying the new paint to not go to heavy so the paint doesn't fill the grain texture on the console, but is there also a valid concern that the rechroming process will cause a noticeable/significant loss of the grain texture on the console ?

I've asked for references for chrome shops that Corvette people (owners/shops) have used & if I do go forward with having it redone, I will go with a shop that comes highly recommended for he specific work I want done (not just the cheapest shop).

[Ed S.]

Re: 1966 Center Console - Rechroming

I sent my console ('64) to LeBrandi's in PA a few years ago - I had mild pitting and some scratches in the areas that were not painted. The results were excellent although I believe I did lose some depth to the pattern where paint is applied. Turn around time was very good - I think I paid like $350, but that was at least 5 years ago. https://www.carchrome.com/ I called and talked to someone in the office a few times- good people to work with, very accommodating. https://www.carchrome.com/

[Ed S.]

Re: 1966 Center Console - Rechroming

One more thing - if you decide to ship your console to a shop somewhere I would be happy to give you a sturdy, wooden shipping container I made just for the console - plywood with reinforced corners - not too heavy - will send to you (or anyone else that needs it) for the cost of shipping. I don't want it back. Can send or post pics if you are interested. I am in Virginia.