C2 Console re-chrome results

[Ed S.]

This is a follow-up post to a previous question I had for a re-chrome shop recommendation. I was asked to report results. Here it is. I went with Lebrandi's Plating in Middletown PA. (http://www.carchrome.com/). I spoke to Mitch, the shop supervisor before I sent my console to him and I liked what I heard. Mitch estimated a price and a 6 to 8 week turn around time for a "show quality" rechrome. It was done in 4 weeks, was about 10% below his estimate and the quality of the chrome is awesome. I had a lot of pitting on surfaces that were visible - they are gone and it looks great. Judge for yourself. Would I recommend them - yes, but.... read on.

But.... the shop created a problem for me and I need member advice. When I shipped the console to Lebrandi's the plate on the back side that holds the ashtray sliding door was attached (see the 3 attached pics). The factory attached it by peening over 4 little studs that were cast into the back side. The shop ground the studs down to remove the plate. There is not enough of the studs left to peen down. How can I re-attach the plate? The place where 2 of the 4 studs are located is visible from the show side, so drilling and installing small pan head screws is out of the question.

[Joe R.]

Re: C2 Console re-chrome results

Rough up the surface a bit with 32 grit or use a cut off grinder. Then use JB Weld. That should hold it for another 50-60 years.

JR

[Ara G.]

Re: C2 Console re-chrome results

On a related note, when you go to paint the inset areas, do it with a few very light coats of paint. Dust it once to fill, then dust again to cover. The chrome filled some of the grain in the console and you want the grain to be visible. If you paint too heavy, even more of the grain will be filled and it will look like a Chinese repop unit and not a nice original. Chrome looks fantastic....Good luck, and sorry for my off topic input...ARA

[Ed S.]

Re: C2 Console re-chrome results

Rough up the surface a bit with 32 grit or use a cut off grinder. Then use JB Weld. That should hold it for another 50-60 years.

JR

Joe,
Thanks for the advice. Have a follow-up question. I've read / heard a lot about JB Weld but have never used it. I checked out their website and as I suspected it has many different adhesive products. From what I read on their website I am assuming you are recommending that I use their original cold-weld two-part epoxy that is mixed in equal portions - this is the stuff that has about a 24 hour cure time. Is that the product you are recommending? Thanks again.

[Frank D.]

Re: C2 Console re-chrome results

Yes - you want the cold weld two part JB Weld in the red and black separate tubes. Do NOT use the JB Weld "Qik" version - it sets up faster but, when cured, only has about 1/2 the strength of the original formula. You would be amazed at what I've fixed with it !!

[Jim D.]

Re: C2 Console re-chrome results

You can also use JB Weld to attach the radio side panel clips to your console that are missing.

[Donald H.]

Re: C2 Console re-chrome results

Also, let the JB Weld cure. As you said the instructions say let it cure for 24 hours, I would event go to a couple of days. It is good stuff and holds great, but is really slow curing.

Don

[Ed S.]

Re: C2 Console re-chrome results

Joe, Frank, Jim, Don,
Thanks for the advice and insights into the miracle product called JB Weld. I've never used the stuff but look forward to experiencing its amazing properties - this may open up a whole new world for me. Seriously, thanks again.

BTW - RE painting the simulated grain section of my console - in addition to applying very light coats as ARA recommended, I also intend to first apply a light coat of self etching primer as so many members have recommended.