I have two '41 ford pickup bullnoses, one that is chrome and the other is a NOS painted one. Would a chrome plater prefer to replate the chrome one or to plate a part thats never been plated before?
The chrome one would have to be stripped with acid. the painted one would be easily done with aircraft stripper or even brake fluid. Ask ChromeplaterJosh here on the HAMB....
I'd guess that the plater would prefer the N.O.S. piece. One less step involved, ie, stripping the old chrome off and possibly repairing any bad stuff under it. The process is the same with both pieces, however the previously chromed piece might not have the line definition in it due to the buffing stage. Difference being the work involved to gain the same results which equals more $$'s to do up the previously chromed bull nose.
If it is a real nice chrome one, they might be able to strip the chrome and replate over the old nickle....
Well Jimmy already told me you called the shop about the parts so I'll be brief and let him handle it; he knows as much about this stuff as I do since we both grew up in the business. I believe the painted one will be better overall, but even painted pot metal can be hiding rot; its just usually shallower and more widespread, whereas the rot in plated potmetal is typically isolated deep spots (pits and edges) where the oxidation has penetrated through the plating.
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