Restoring a '62 air cleaner base: silkscreen?

[Rob Edwards]

As shown below, I got ahold of a '62 air cleaner top and base. The base is in better shape than the lid (see next post) but is clearly in need of a trip thru a media cabinet of some sort. No rust or pitting, just really dark, especially the underside. The JG says it's just stamped steel with plating. SO- questions:
1. What best to use to blast this so it can be plated?
2. What plating was used on the bases? Silver Cad?
3. I called Paragon and they do not do the silkscreening on these. The car currently has a shiny new repro base with the AC98 silkscreen, so SOMEONE's doing them. Any ideas?
4. Perhaps there's a source for re-doing these along with the lid (which needs some serious de-dinging)? I haven't specifically noted anyone in the Driveline advertising this particular service.

Thanks for any opinions/info!

[Jerry C.]

Re: Restoring a '62 air cleaner base: silkscreen?

Having several cars judged I have never found an air cleaner base with the lip to hold it on the carb. I would just clean it up best you can and have it judged the way it is. the cleaning instructions look pretty clear and the judges will like it, probably a point for condition.

[Roy B.]

Re: Restoring a '62 air cleaner base: silkscreen?

I agree, keep the real deal please! judges loved my original items , lost little on condition and were thanking me for not over restoring or replacing with re-pops.

[Christopher R.]

But How Do You Clean It?

I bought the exact same thing cheap last week at Spring Carlisle. Silkscreen is in great shape. But the metal has lots of surface rust. How can I clean it without ruining the silkscreen?