Omar Khalid
Re-chroming plastic center caps can be a tricky and expensive process. While some people opt for DIY methods, others prefer to get it done professionally. The cost of re-chroming can vary, with some companies charging as much as $1500 per piece. There are alternatives to re-chroming, such as buying new center caps or getting replacements, which can be more cost-effective. Another option is to use a chrome spray or paint, which can be done at home or by a specialist.
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What You'll Learn
Removing chrome from plastic center caps
If you want to attempt to remove the chrome yourself, there are a few different methods you can try. One method is to use a product like The Works toilet bowl cleaner, which is essentially hydrochloric acid. Be sure to wear a mask and gloves when using this product and do it outside. Put some on a towel and rub it on the chrome, and then have a container of baking soda and water nearby to clean off the part when you're done.
Another method is to use a paint stripper or lacquer thinner. Soak the caps in one of these solutions, and it should remove the paint without damaging the chrome. You can also try using oven cleaner, spraying it on and letting it sit for a couple of hours before wiping it off with a wet towel.
If you're looking to remove the entire wheelskin, be careful not to break any of the plastic clips or the vinyl wing nut, as this may require you to sand, clean, and repaint the rims or replace them entirely. To remove the center cap, you can pop it off with a screwdriver and then twist and pull it out.
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Sanding down plastic center caps
Sanding down plastic centre caps requires some care and attention. Firstly, it is important to use the right tools for the job. Sanding caps are ideal for this purpose, as they are made of compounds suitable for sanding plastic. They come in different grits for different sanding stages. For example, 80 and 150 grit sanding caps can be used for smoothing surfaces and edges, as well as for general surface sanding. These are ideal for removing scratches and other imperfections from the plastic surface.
Before sanding, it is important to clean the plastic centre caps thoroughly with dish soap and water to remove any dirt, grease, or grime. This will ensure that the sanding process is effective and does not simply push dirt and debris into the plastic surface. Once the caps are clean and dry, you can begin the sanding process.
Start with a finer grit sanding cap to smooth out the surface and remove any small scratches or haze. Always sand in the direction of the grain, if there is one, and use light, even pressure. You may need to use a higher grit sanding cap for deeper scratches or more stubborn areas, but be careful not to create more scratches by over-sanding or using too much pressure.
It is important to take your time and work in small sections, especially when sanding curved or detailed areas. This will help you achieve an even finish. Remember to regularly clean the sanding caps to prevent buildup, which could scratch the plastic. Finally, once you have finished sanding, you can move on to the next step of your refinishing process, such as polishing or waxing, to restore the shine and protect the surface.
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Painting plastic center caps
Painting plastic centre caps can be a simple DIY project. The first step is to pop the centre caps off the rims. If the wheels are off the ground, you can push them off from the back. If the wheels are still on the car, a small flat-head screwdriver can help you to remove them. Once the caps are off, take the rings off by tapping out the four pins holding them in place with a nail tap. Sand all the paint off the centre caps with 220-grit sandpaper, making sure to get the edges as well. After sanding, clean the centre caps thoroughly to prepare them for painting. You can use any paint that is suitable for plastic, such as Rust-Oleum indoor/outdoor flat black paint.
It is important to clean the centre caps thoroughly before painting to ensure that the paint will adhere properly and that the final product looks smooth and even. A variety of household items can be used to clean the centre caps, such as mild soap, water, and a soft cloth. It is also important to rinse and dry the centre caps thoroughly after cleaning to remove any soap residue.
Once the centre caps are clean and dry, it is time to start painting. It is recommended to use a primer first, as this will help the paint adhere better and create a more durable finish. Choose a primer that is specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces, as this will ensure the best adhesion and durability. Apply the primer with a small brush or spray, following the instructions on the product for the best results.
After the primer has dried, you can start applying the paint. Again, it is important to choose a paint that is suitable for plastic surfaces. You can use a small brush or a spray to apply the paint, depending on your preference and the look you are going for. If using a spray, make sure to follow the instructions on the product to ensure proper application and safety.
Finally, let the paint dry completely before reattaching the centre caps to your vehicle. You may need to apply multiple coats of paint to achieve the desired finish, so make sure to allow adequate drying time between coats. Once the paint is dry, you can reattach the rings and pop the centre caps back onto the rims, following the same process as when you removed them.
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Re-plating chrome-plated plastic
An alternative method is to use chrome spray paint, such as PChrome, which provides the same look and strength as traditional chrome plating. This option is much more affordable, versatile, and can be applied on-site, saving time and money. It can be applied to plastic parts of any size and bonds well to almost any surface. It also comes in several shades, including blue, red, gold, and silver.
Another option is to use vacuum metalizing, which is commonly used in the manufacture of flashlight reflectors. This process involves applying a base coat to the plastic part and then exposing it to a vapor cloud made of aluminum. The vapor bonds to the surface, leaving a chrome-like shine. However, this method can be time-consuming and expensive due to the need to send off the parts.
Additionally, some companies specialize in chrome-plating plastic, such as Mr. G's Rechromed Plastic, Ogden Chrome, and Vacuum Orna-Metal. However, these services can be costly, and some may not offer the same level of durability as traditional chrome plating.
Finally, a do-it-yourself method involves stripping the old chrome, painting the pieces gloss black, and then using a chrome spray, such as Molotow Liquid Chrome. This method can be a cost-effective solution, but it may not provide the same level of durability and finish as professional services.
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Cost of re-chroming plastic center caps
The cost of re-chroming plastic center caps can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the parts, the complexity of the job, and the quality of the finish.
Some companies charge per piece, with prices ranging from $550 to $1500 per item. This price can vary depending on the size of the part, as larger pieces may require more time and materials. For example, a 6-foot thin tube will fit in a plating tank, while two 3-foot pieces will require a smaller tank, affecting the cost.
Other companies charge per wheel, with prices ranging from $180 to $250 per wheel. This price may include additional services such as stripping and prepping the wheels before plating.
It's important to note that the cost of re-chroming plastic parts can be expensive due to the labour-intensive process. The prep work, which includes stripping the old coating, polishing the parts, and removing grease, can account for about 50% of the total cost. The plating cost itself depends on the base metal, with stainless steel and pot-metal being more challenging and costly to plate than steel, bronze, or copper.
When considering re-chroming plastic center caps, it is recommended to call around to different companies to get quotes and compare prices. It is also worth considering alternative options, such as aftermarket wheels or vinyl wrapping, which may be more cost-effective.
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Frequently asked questions
You can re-chrome plastic center caps by stripping the old chrome and then painting the pieces gloss black before applying chrome spray. You can also try using a chrome polish.
You can use The Works toilet bowl cleaner, which contains hydrochloric acid, to strip chrome. Always wear a mask and gloves and do this outside.
Yes, there are companies that offer this service, such as Mr. G's Rechromed Plastic, Ogden Chrome, and Vacuum Orna-Metal. However, this can be expensive, with some companies charging $1500 per piece.
Yes, you can try purchasing replacement center caps, which may be more cost-effective than re-chroming. You can also consider wrapping the center caps with shiny vinyl as a temporary solution.
You can try bringing your rims to a wheel specialist to have them stripped, but some center caps may not hold up to the stripping process. As a DIY alternative, you can try using paint thinner or sanding the caps down.
