Bumpers, Chrome or Stainless Steel

[Albert]

Hello All,
As chrome plating is so expensive I'm reviewing the option of purchasing new Stainless steel bumpers rather than re-chrome.
Thoughts please.
Does anyone have experience with  "Group Harrington"  stainless steel bumpers?

Regards
Al

[jaymanek]

I think the general consensus is that they are ok but will never shine like chrome...

Just like the hub caps... reminds me I need to have my original caps re chromed!

[jameshoward]

I'm just going through this process at the moment. Having priced SS bumpers, and having looked at the price of rechroming, when you consider the fact that the SS bumpers are not original and may not fit nearly as well as originals, buying SS seems a false economy. For me, it was about €100 more to go down the rechroming route rather than replace my rear bumpers. At least I know my originals will fit. Some folk have had real challenges making SS aftermarket ones fit. Do a search.

JH

[mdsalemi]

...will never shine like chrome...Just like the hub caps...

I beg to raise my hand, not to differ but to say not quite. My late model replacement OEM wheel covers are stainless steel, and when clean and polished (as they usually are) the shine is not distinguishable from polished chrome, except from an expert.

Now, before anyone gets in a tizzy here, understand that there is always a "color" difference between stainless steel and chromium. The astute will notice that; in a general description, the SS is "cooler" and the chrome "warmer". Also, the ability to polish said stainless has a lot to do with the quality of the stainless. I've discussed this before and even posted photos of a reproduction SS wheel cover, versus the OEM from MB. Absolutely no comparison, and I don't think anyone could make the former look like the latter. The underlying metal can't be changed.

There are some specialty houses out there: http://finishingtouch7.com/How_to_polish_stainless_steel.shtml or http://www.ableelectropolishing.com/

Of course the underlying question had to do with bumpers. Surely someone CAN make SS bumpers that are high quality, and "polishable". Whether they have is another question.

[Albert]

Thanks Chaps,
My original bumpers are in reasonable condition so I'll try & get a re-chroming quote.
Does anyone know of a good chrome plating company in the UK.
Midlands area if possible.

Al

[Paul & Dolly]

Hi Al,

There is a good one (expensive & time consuming though) in Bristol,

I can get the contact details this weekend, if you still need it.

Paul

[Albert]

Yes please & I'll call for a quote

[jaymanek]

Thanks Chaps,
My original bumpers are in reasonable condition so I'll try & get a re-chroming quote.
Does anyone know of a good chrome plating company in the UK.
Midlands area if possible.

Al

You want Marque Restore.

http://www.marquerestore.co.uk/

[Albert]

Nice one
Thanks

[lamakdaddy]

You should allow around 1200 to 1500 gbp plus vat for a decent rechrome job..

[Paul & Dolly]

Hi Albert,

I was at The Tredegar Park show today, and S&T of Yate (Bristol)  were recommended to me as the tops
for chrome plating, by Alvis and RR restorers locally.
apparently can take some time, but will give a quote before starting.
http://www.stchrome.co.uk/
I have not personally had any call for their services.

Keep well

Paul

[Paul99]

worth getting them done soon.  It seems the EU are banning the use of chrome as it kills the planet it seems.
http://www.classiccarsforsale.co.uk/news/general/800023407/eu-proposes-chrome-plating-ban/

[Albert]

Nice one
Thanks all.

Chrome plating it is