I am having my large gauge bezels rechromed since I only want to put the interior back together once. It is a PITA.

How can I get the black trim paint to adhere to the chrome? Will the new metal prep work from Por-15? How long do I have to wipe off the metal prep before it discolors the new chrome? Can I wait for the paint to dry and simply polish the chrome edge after the metal prep has sat for a while? Has anyone else had success in getting their paint to adhere. I have already practiced taping and using a razor to trim up around the chrome edge that is supposed to show.That worked real well.

In experimenting, the paint did not adhere to the chrome.There does not appear to be any primer under the original trim paint like on the side louvers located on the fenders.

Has anyone else had great success with painting their bezels and other interior chrome?


Thanks,
Bill

Hi, I just finished painting both the shifter plate in center consul and the gage bezel. I taped the small inside chrome edges but for the larger outside chrome edges I just painted over the chrome with black and took some thinner on a rag and wiped off the black paint it worked real well. Also for the lettering I used a Q-tip with thinner to wipe off the black paint and that also worked real well. I did not paint the large instrument gage bezal but I think this method would work on that also.

Hey after rereading your post I guess I did not help you much, I painted the black part of my bezals and the wiped the paint off the chrome parts. I guess this is not what you are looking for. Sorry

Chrome is too smooth for the paint to adhere. You can try a chemical etch, and then use a 3M pad or steel wool to lightly scuff the surface. Use an adhesion promoter primer, then paint it.

Hello,

Before you get these parts chromed, you might try using a dremel tool with polishing wheels and jewelers rouge to see if that might work. Try a test spot on the back of the piece. I am not convinced these parts are chrome plated. The pieces I have seen new have a shine on the back and polishing would produce a high level of shine that is chrome like. Just my two cents.

Alex
Vette Specialties
http://www.vettespecialties.com

I thought I read here, or was told elsewhere that both the shifter plate and gauge bezel was made out of pewter?

Rick

They are actually pot metal. I have spoken to a couple of guys that restore these pieces and it seems that the concensus is that you scuff them up a little with steel wool, use charcoal colored primer, bake the primer on, and then use a good quality paint. I am going to use good ole Plasti-kote semi-gloss black. It used to be called T3 Hot Rod black and it a a perfect match in color and sheen. Plus the lacquer paint dries quickly so less dirt can get in the paint. It will also adhere better to the chrome.

I will let everyone know how they turn out.

This paint is also a perfect match for the engine compartment, steering column or any onther part that is a semi-gloss finish.

Thank you for everyones input.

I have just got to get the interior done so I can drop the top and cruise!


Bill