70 Front Grilles-need a chrome shop to restore

[Mike Z.]

The chrome shop I normally use, decided they can not do the two Grilles (w/parking light) on my 70 project. He got them stripped of the old chrome and realized they were made of "pot metal". He has done some of my other pot metal parts, but decided can't do the grilles.
Has anyone out there found a shop that can do these grille?????????????? I realize NOS and reproductions are available; however, they are more correct for 71-72, as the 70's are somewhat unique with the 3 studs; therefore, I would like to re-chrome my originals vs. change out to 71's.
Thanks,
Mike

[Bill W.]

Re: 70 Front Grilles-need a chrome shop to restore

I had my 70 grilles done at St. Louis plating a few years ago . They done a great job . you will still need to paint them .

[Bob I.]

Re: 70 Front Grilles-need a chrome shop to restore

I used Richard Fortier, to restore (chrome and paint) my 1970 grilles.
Bob

[Joe L.]

Re: 70 Front Grilles-need a chrome shop to restore

The chrome shop I normally use, decided they can not do the two Grilles (w/parking light) on my 70 project. He got them stripped of the old chrome and realized they were made of "pot metal". He has done some of my other pot metal parts, but decided can't do the grilles.
Has anyone out there found a shop that can do these grille?????????????? I realize NOS and reproductions are available; however, they are more correct for 71-72, as the 70's are somewhat unique with the 3 studs; therefore, I would like to re-chrome my originals vs. change out to 71's.
Thanks,
Mike

Mike------

My guess would be that he decided he could not do them when he discovered that there was some pitting or other deterioration of the zinc diecast ("pot metal"). He probably figured that you would not be pleased with the results. If pitting or other deterioration exists, re-finishing must be preceded by restoration. On these grilles, the latter can be quite difficult.

[Steve L.]

Re: 70 Front Grilles-need a chrome shop to restore

I think you have to flash copper plate, then acid copper plate fairly thickly, Fill in pits, then polish. Follow this with nickle plate than chrome. Lots of work.

[Pat M.]

Re: 70 Front Grilles-need a chrome shop to restore

I used Richard Fortier, to restore (chrome and paint) my 1970 grilles.
Bob

Ditto, he did an amazing job for me. Also, he repaired a crack and two broken off studs flawlessly, which I understand is not easy with pot metal.

[Mike Z.]

Re: 70 Front Grilles-need a chrome shop to restore

Thanks guys, lots of good guidance-I will check with the sources mentioned.
Mike

[Bill C.]

Re: 70 Front Grilles-need a chrome shop to restore

if I kind of half remember correctly --

it would run about $1000 or so to get the pair done.

then you need to do the correct colored argent point etc...

I had Richard do other chrome work for me over the years - 1000% great work!!!!

Bill

[Les G.]

Re: 70 Front Grilles-need a chrome shop to restore

I would recommend Frankfort Plating in Phila, PA he did a few for me and they turned out great. You just have to paint them He changes about $225.00 per grill.