Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => General Discussion => Topic started by: Eryck on February 10, 2005, 12:26:31

Title: Re-chrome or Re-pro
Post by: Eryck on February 10, 2005, 12:26:31

Got a quote for re-chroming my bumpers. They cost about the same as buying reproductions circa US$350 for the front bumpers.  What do you all think? Re-chrome or get the re-pro's? No idea on the quality of the re-chrome work though...

1965 230 SL White Manual
Hong Kong

Title: Re: Re-chrome or Re-pro
Post by: Tom on February 10, 2005, 13:51:13

Rechrome.  Reproduction bumpers are thinner-first time in the parking lot you will have a dent.

1971 280sl Tunis Beige Metallic (restored & enhanced)
1971 280sl Tobacco Brown (low mileage stock)
1970 280sl Deep Red (Project Car)

Title: Re: Re-chrome or Re-pro
Post by: mdsalemi on February 10, 2005, 15:24:56

Rechrome.  Production chrome is not nearly as good as custom re-chrome work.  Thinner material plus thinner chrome=second class bumper.

Michael Salemi
1969 280SL
Signal Red w/Black Leather
Restored

Title: Re: Re-chrome or Re-pro
Post by: J. Huber on February 10, 2005, 15:40:24

For what it's worth -- it cost me 400 to rechrome my front bumbers (and the little center doohicky). And that was 1998....

James
63 230SL

Title: Re: Re-chrome or Re-pro
Post by: Bob G ✝︎ on February 10, 2005, 16:29:52

I am having the same decision to make . A very hard one considering I am a perfectist for organality. I cannot seem to fine anyone who dares to speak up and admit to buying reproduction bumpers.
I there for feel from what I have heard that if you can fine a decent chrome shop that doesn't cost you to morage your home than by all means go with a good triple plating and make sure they follow the correct steps to preping the bumper and polishing the metal cooper &nickel before the final coat of chrome.
I do know that orginal chrome has a blue cast tint to it. I do not know how this is done but it looks very nice in the sun. Providing your front bumper is in  not  too bad shape I highly recommend having it rechromed. "If you look under articles on this web site their are numours post on chrome plating and what proceeder good chrome shops follow. I recommend you read these post before heading off to the chrome shop. speaking on their level will proviide you with a much better job. Also remember to paint the inside of the bumpers with a good rust preventive paint to keep rust from forming.

Bob Geco
restoring a 1968 280SL
Since We cannot know everything
all that is to be known of everything
We ought to know a little about everything.