Mike H.

Has anyone had the plastic instrument bezel re-chromed for a '68 Cutlass? I'm referring to the piece that has the ignition switch, wiper switch, etc. It's my understanding that they have to chrome the entire piece and then paint the black back in. If anyone has had this done would like to see some pics and get a reference.

Thanks, Mike

rcorrigan5

Hi Mike,
Rather than chrome plate plastic, which I understand is not really a chrome plating process, what I did on my '68 was use a silver Sharpie pen to refinish all the trim on those plastic pieces. I also used the Sharpie to even trace the lettering on the dash panel that recognize the different switches. You need to be real careful while doing it but, with a steady hand, the finished product looks very nice.


Randy C.

allyolds68

rcktdoc had this 69 dash for sale for $800 that was restored. He might share with you how it was done if you send him a message


https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...-restored.html

joe_padavano

The factory used a hot transfer process, sort of like an iron-on. This way the "chrome" was only applied to the raised letters and edge of the plastic part. I'm not aware of anyone who replicates this process, so the entire "chrome" plating an black paint appears to be the only option. I question that method due to the cost and the fact that it isn't anything like the factory process. Keep in mind that plastic "chrome" is actually an aluminum vapor deposition process.

That silver paint pen is looking better all the time.

rcorrigan5

Goodness gracious...I'm getting my '68 ***** mixed up with my '69 *****...my answer above is completely irrelevant!

Randy C.

joe_padavano

Memory is the second thing to go, and I can't remember the first...

Mike H.

Thanks for the replies. Looks like I'll be searching for the ideal 'chrome' pen.

Indy_68_S

Please post pics of your results! I need to do this too.

My442

If you want the bezel to look like factory new, send it to ChromeTech.

They will vacuum metalize and paint it to appear brand new.

The other option is to use Bare Metal Foil on the raised areas.

Both of these look much better than the supposed chrome pens.

joe_padavano

Got a link for them? The bare metal foil sounds like closer to OEM.

My442

http://www.chrometechusa.com/


http://www.bare-metal.com/bare-metal-foil.html

steverw

Aluminum vacuumizing is how it was done at the factory from what I understand. I sent my dash to Chrometech and it looks great. They will do everything, the aluminum vacuum and paint if you want. I just had them do the "chrome". It looks chrome but its not, just the same as from the factory. Their in Madison Wi. I built a plywood crate to ship it in for protection, as the plastic is extremely fragile/brittle. It was floating in styrofoam peanuts, made it to and back with no problem. I think the price was $275 just for the "chrome" as i recall. They were great to deal with! The chrome looks good, painting it was tedious, i think it looks ok.
Steve