Replating a master cylinder cover

[Joseph E.]

I've got a nice original MC cover for my '67 that is in need of refinishing. What kind of plating is correct for the cover and where is a good place to have the work done? There seems to be some remainng plating on the underside beneath the gasket that looks to be what I'd call gold in color if this helps. Thanks for the replies to my request for input on Lone Star Caliper-my master cylinder core is on its way to them for sleeving and rebuilding.

Joe 45420

[Joe L.]

Re: Replating a master cylinder cover

I've got a nice original MC cover for my '67 that is in need of refinishing. What kind of plating is correct for the cover and where is a good place to have the work done? There seems to be some remainng plating on the underside beneath the gasket that looks to be what I'd call gold in color if this helps. Thanks for the replies to my request for input on Lone Star Caliper-my master cylinder core is on its way to them for sleeving and rebuilding.

Joe 45420

Joe------


The finish was originally a zinc plate with a dichromate ("gold") overplate. However, the exact finish is rarely seen today in refinished parts. The original finish was a dull zinc and the resultant overplate was also rather dull and with a rough finish. Most of what I've seen done today results in a very shiny zinc with a very bright, shiny and smooth overplate.

It's always a good idea to have an original part re-finished if at all possible, especially since I know of no exact reproductions of this part. However, bear in mind that there's usually some wear on these covers due to effect of the bails as they are snapped into place. This wear will not be "erased" by the replating.

[Jack C.]

Re: Replating a master cylinder cover

Richard Fortier can replate and repair as well as Steve Gregori, who both advertise in the Driveline.

[Chris E.]

Re: Replating a master cylinder cover

Joe, care to post a picture of this original piece?

[Joe L.]

Re: Replating a master cylinder cover

Joe, care to post a picture of this original piece?

Chris------


I would have done so but finding one among the parts in my group 4 tote bins is the problem. Those group 4 tote bins are heavy!

[Gerard F.]

Re: Replating a master cylinder cover

I've got a nice original MC cover for my '67 that is in need of refinishing. What kind of plating is correct for the cover and where is a good place to have the work done? There seems to be some remainng plating on the underside beneath the gasket that looks to be what I'd call gold in color if this helps. Thanks for the replies to my request for input on Lone Star Caliper-my master cylinder core is on its way to them for sleeving and rebuilding.

Joe 45420

Joe,

Here's a couple that I did in zinc plating with a yellow dichromate dip, a few years ago. I believe the one the left in both pictures is an original 67 cover, the one on the right is later:



After drying with my wife's hair dryer to bring out the red and greens:




They do dull down after a while.

I don't do this commercially, just do it as a hobby. Haven't heated up the plating setup in a while. If you like the look and can wait a while, you can email me through the forum.

Planning on going to Wildwood NJ in May next year from California.

[Bob D.]

Re: Replating a master cylinder cover

Joe

I sent you a private email.

bob