Correct plating for top latch parts?

Discussion in 'The ragtop shop' started by TimR, Feb 28, 2004.

  1. TimR

    TimR Nutcase at large

    What is the correct plating for the top latch recepticle that mounts on the windshield header.

    I have been told by several people that it is a "mottled chrome" or cheay type chrome plating that turns gray after years of oxidation.....can anyone verify this??

    Thanks
    Tim
     
  2. r72gs

    r72gs Another project........

    Tim,

    Mine look like they were nickel plated. Looks like the same finish as the support arm for the rearveiw mirror.

    I was planning on getting mine replated at some point, they do look very dull.

    I've never heard of "mottled chrome" so I'm not sure if it's that and not nickel.
     
  3. TimR

    TimR Nutcase at large

    I know, its kind of hard to explain, but its that shiney but not consistant finish....really wish I could see a new one somewhere....

    I don't think its nickel, seems too soft for that. I know there is brass(?) underneath, I was told they were molded, then did a quickie 15 minute chrome job on them and out they went....

    now i have another mission!!

    later
    tim
     
  4. Dan K

    Dan K Well-Known Member

    Mine look dull as well. Almost like "brushed chrome" or brushed stainless. They are not supposed to look shiney like my mirror chrome '66 pieces.
     
  5. TimR

    TimR Nutcase at large

    Yeah but what did they look like new ??

    I'll bet they were much shineier than they are now...when i say 15 minute chrome it is not shiney, it has a textured sheen to it...

    later
    Tim
     
  6. r72gs

    r72gs Another project........

    I think thats copper you see underneath. Part of the plating process.

    If I understand it correctly triple chrome plate is copper, nickle, then chrome.

    I also think they were dull when new. The glare form something shiney in that area would have been terrible.
     
  7. TimR

    TimR Nutcase at large

    Sorry, copper is what I meant...not enough sleep.....Anyway, Duane H has some NOS ones and is going to look at them for me. I don't think they would be real shiney but I don't think they would be dull either...

    later
    Tim
     
  8. r72gs

    r72gs Another project........

    Let us know Tim, Mine need done at some point.

    I think you're right, not real shiney and not real dull. On some of the older cars they used nickel plating on the interior handles, thats what ot looks like to me. I wouldn't be suprised if it turns out to be nickel.
     

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