Removing Chrome

[Joe M.]

I believe the seat belt hambones were installed prior to body painting and therefore, should be body color. What type of acid is required to remove the chrome off of the repro hambones? Or is this a DIY project?

[Edward J.]

Re: Removing Chrome

Joe, If you lightly scuff the hambones with a fine sandpaper and use a self etching primer the paint will have a good chance to stick to the chrome.

[Gerald C.]

Re: Removing Chrome

Joe,

Did you try Ed's option and if so, how did they come out?

Jerry

[John D.]

Re: Removing Chrome

Let a chrome plating shop strip the parts in a few minutes

[Joe M.]

Re: Removing Chrome

I don't remember what I chose to do in 2011.

[Ken R.]

Re: Removing Chrome

I just used a buffing wheel and some rouge and took off the chrome on some SS trim pieces I had. You would need to rough up the surface for a primer to stick then.

[Joe L.]

Re: Removing Chrome

I believe the seat belt hambones were installed prior to body painting and therefore, should be body color. What type of acid is required to remove the chrome off of the repro hambones? Or is this a DIY project?

Joe------


Hydrochloric (muriatic) acid will remove the chrome. Be very careful using this. Wear gloves and eye protection.

[Tracy C.]

Re: Removing Chrome

Joe------


Hydrochloric (muriatic) acid will remove the chrome. Be very careful using this. Wear gloves and eye protection.

You are correct Joe. A 5 minute swim in a 50/50 mix with acid/tap water will do the trick. The nickel will remain on the part but will be etched enough for paint to stick. Also neutralize the acid on the parts by rinsing them in water with baking soda mixed in. This will prevent surface rust from forming on the part. Otherwise the acid will continue to work on the surface of the parts even when you think it is completely rinsed off. 1/2 pound soda in 2 gallons of water is adequate. You can also use this water/soda solution to kill the acid prior to disposing as hazardous waste.

tc

[Mike E.]

Re: Removing Chrome

Your initial premise that they should be painted is faulty. In unrestored cars I have seen them unpainted and partially lightly dusted, but never fully painted.