Metal Refinishing....

[Andrew P.]

Two questions and I REALLY appreciate the help...

1. Does anyone know of a metal refinishing service that will remove dings and do small repairs?

2. I have derusting down to a fine science at this point but what is the best method to restore the original finishes for what was originally zinc chromate - coated parts? I believe they were finished in the gold and silver tints depending on the parts. Does everything need to be replated (nuts bolts etc) or is there something that does a good job restoring the original finish?

Thanks in advance!

-Drew

[Mike G.]

Re: Metal Refinishing....

Not sure what type of parts you're dealing with, but here's a thought. There are folks who repair brass musical instruments, and they are true experts at taking out dings in thin metal items. Bondo doesn't look too cool on a trumpet...
Now for the zinc chromate finish, that should be within the skillset of many, if not most, replaters.

[Bob R.]

Re: Metal Refinishing....

There are people who can remove dents from stainless steel. I had the wheel covers on my 63 done about 5 years ago. I found a local shop in the Fall River area. The workmanship was quite good but it took quite a while. The company is called Bright Works Steve Grace 508-646-6690.

[Jack H.]

Re: Metal Refinishing....

If the part was either cad or zinc plated then given a dichromate wash (gold color often with 'rainbow' undertones) to enhance durability by sealing surface pores, that's the only way to restore it properly. The dichromate finish is very thin and 'evaporates' with handling/polishing.

So, the only way to properly duplicate the finish is to re-plate the part and once again take it for a brief 'swim' in chromatic acid to lay down a fresh gold tone finish. There are paint systems to 'duplicate' the look, but to a reasonably trained eye, the paint is obvious and crude compared to the real deal plating job...