Re: Potmetal preservation methods

Posted by Fish'n Jim On 2017/12/16 12:25:31

I agree with OD, to a point. Shed light, not doubt. If your car has been protected and cared for "properly", it's far more likely to not suffer the ills of age. Proper storage, and a twice yearly detailing, goes a long way for paint as well. But what is "proper"? A term that's condition based and degree of fit for use dependent. Proper has a result. Improper does too, just not desired. Best practice applies generally.

What we refer to as "Pot metal" aka, zinc die cast, is zinc alloy in various formulas, so it's not as stable as 316 stainless steel. Colloquially, these terms have many meanings, "white metal" can also refer to tin/lead bases not used in these applications. Some die cast is lead based. I'm not referring to those.
The alloy composition, it's inclusions, surface treatment, and what it's subjected to, will in large part determine the stability of the part. One has no control over these, except care and storage conditions after acquiring. It could be great or already corroded inside or out. But corrosion requires things, oxygen and electron path, to proceed, and those can be interrupted.

Note the military test requirements in the two mil specs, C-11796C and 81309E for the VCI products. Much more severe than your garage.

PS: the bezel part may also be able to be made by machining, engraving, and followed by plating. I'd suggest to take it off, take digital photos, and make an impression now, so it can be duplicated later.