67 Console Restoration - What Is The Process?

[Jace H.]

My 67 console needs to be restored. I have pitting in the chrome especially around the shift boot area (small green bumps). I assume that I have to strip the console re-chrome and then paint? Any help here on the proper process and perhaps some referals on anyone who does this would be appreciated. How do I get the old **** pattern and the other plate that surrounds the shift boot and ash tray out without damaging the console?

Thanks,
Jace Holt

[Jack H.]

Re: 67 Console Restoration - What Is The Process?

Some of the Corvette catalog houses offer restoration services that could be cheaper than doing it yourself....

The SHIFT pattern indicator is simply glued to the console plate. Soaking it in lacquer thinner should release the glue.

On re-chroming, before you do anything, take the naked console to the chrome plating shop of your choice for advice/counsel. Some remove prior chrome with a long bath in acid to etch. Others will dechrome electro chemically (fast, easy, non-invasive to the underlying surface). So, before you go overboard in manual surface prep, let the 'expert' have his say....

[Joe C.]

Re: 67 Console Restoration - What Is The Process?

Jace:

I was under the impression that very few, if any platers can or will strip and replate pot metal. The reproduction shi(f)t pattern plates are a dead giveaway.

I heard that SOMEONE is reproducing the 64-67 consoles again. If true, this might be a better option.

Joe

[Jack H.]

Re: 67 Console Restoration - What Is The Process?

The really good ole boy platers can/do work on pot metal. Most refuse simply because they can't guarantee to get rid of all surface pit (factory original pot castings were NOT pit free to begin with; blow holes and incomplete mold fill was always a fact of life) AND there's risk associated with handling these soft, rather easy to break/distort castings to start with. If you call around and talk to various plating shops, you WILL find that 'good ole boy' and just might be surprised at his reasonable price (could also suffer sticker shock too...).

[Jerry Clark]

Re: 67 Console Restoration - What Is The Process?

I remove all the trim, shift boot surround and pattern indicator. I strip the paint, usually lacquer thinner works easily.
There are several shops that will rechrome these, try:
Areba Services
Mr. Rick Applegate
291 Fern Drive
Jackson, Tennessee
38305
731-422-0567
also:
Classic Chrome
Clearwater, Florida
727-531-2000

His work is excellent in my opinion and fairly priced. The pot metal platers vary greatly from shop to shop. I have had excellent rechroming dome on mid year consoles, prices have been $250.00 - 650.00. Much depends on condition of the metal, (pitting).
I have heard David Crane is / maybe doing reproduction 64 - 67 consoles
Good luck
jer

[Jace H.]

Re: 67 Console Restoration - THANKS

Thanks to all that responded.

Jace