Re: Potmetal preservation methods

Posted by Fish'n Jim On 2017/12/9 14:14:36

Not much one can do except keep it well waxed and out of the dampness.
Even under best of conditions, it can oxidize from inclusions within and cause a bubble that will eventually blister and ruin the chrome finish. You got so many dissimilar metals going on there as a sandwich. The underside is usually not as finished and being more porous, it tends to go first. Zinc's natural state is oxide, so it's just a matter of time.
There are spray anti-corrosion preparations like CRC 06026 that you can use on the back side, but it has a shelf life and must be cleaned off and re-applied every couple years. Hard to do if on the vehicle and not sure if it'll hurt the paint or run during washing. It's also brownish, so you have to keep off the showing side. I use on restorations with metal parts when I store long term. The stuff doesn't last all that well in the spray can so get fresh.
I waxed my show chrome and wrapped in bubble wrap and stored on shelf. Doing well.
If good side is already pitted somewhat, I'd get it to the chrome shop, ASAP, for a show quality redo. They'll blast it and fill in the pits, if done properly. Keep it waxed and dry after.
I'd say it's just one of the facets of owning a collector car, you have more maintenance then a new car to make and keep it looking new.
Some just leave it as patina. The exterior A pillar trim on my CAD looks like a cheese grader, but still shiny, so I don't bother. When I find some good ones, I'll change them.