Cleaning Chrome and Keeping it Shining.
#25
10-02-2013, 07:05 PM
Cruiser
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Canton, OH
Posts: 239
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I noticed that there was some question on how best to keep chrome shiny, clean and protected so I did some searching on the internet and came across this from a chromer. Thought people might be interested in what she has to say.
"I am the female owner of Custom Wors Plating and Polishing. I noticed this question and couldn't resist answering. I get this question a lot from my customers and people on the street. Chrome is not anything more than a clear coat over your nickel to keep it from oxidizing. Using ANYTHING abrasive will cause you to literally rub the chrome off. The best thing to use on chrome is just plain old SOAP & WATER or GLASS CLEANER. You should always keep it waxed with a CARNUBA wax. This is non abrasive and will protect your chrome. Keeping chrome clean will preserve it for a long time. If your chrome is showing rust you should have it rechromed because if not it will continue to rust. This just means there is nothing covering the bare metal and will continue to rust. If you would like to see the true chrome process go to www.customworksplating.com or call me and I will help you as much as possible."
"I am the female owner of Custom Wors Plating and Polishing. I noticed this question and couldn't resist answering. I get this question a lot from my customers and people on the street. Chrome is not anything more than a clear coat over your nickel to keep it from oxidizing. Using ANYTHING abrasive will cause you to literally rub the chrome off. The best thing to use on chrome is just plain old SOAP & WATER or GLASS CLEANER. You should always keep it waxed with a CARNUBA wax. This is non abrasive and will protect your chrome. Keeping chrome clean will preserve it for a long time. If your chrome is showing rust you should have it rechromed because if not it will continue to rust. This just means there is nothing covering the bare metal and will continue to rust. If you would like to see the true chrome process go to www.customworksplating.com or call me and I will help you as much as possible."
#27
10-02-2013, 08:35 PM
#29
10-02-2013, 10:15 PM
I've been using the same product for years. It's called Dri-Wash. I use it on the paint, chrome and windshields. Just spray it on and wipe it down with a micro-fiber towel. The stuff works great, a little pricey but it goes a long ways. If they ever stop making it I'll be lost. I get compliments all the time how my bikes sparkle and it only takes a few minutes to wipe a whole bike down, after you use a couple of times the bugs come off easily.
#30
10-02-2013, 10:46 PM
Ultimate HDF Member
Simichrome is an abrasive, be careful how much you use, and how much pressure
you use while applying it. It will eventually wear out the chrome if you use it too much.
Flitz is a finer compound than simichrome, and is more forgiving.
I would not use simichrome on a newly chromed part, only chrome that needs
freshening up, or is very dirty or starting to pit. You wouldn't take sandpaper to your new chrome would you?
simichrome is sandpaper if paste from.
Don't get me wrong, I do use it when the chrome is starting to look crappy,
and is weathered, but would not use it on new chrome, especially show chrome
you use while applying it. It will eventually wear out the chrome if you use it too much.
Flitz is a finer compound than simichrome, and is more forgiving.
I would not use simichrome on a newly chromed part, only chrome that needs
freshening up, or is very dirty or starting to pit. You wouldn't take sandpaper to your new chrome would you?
simichrome is sandpaper if paste from.
Don't get me wrong, I do use it when the chrome is starting to look crappy,
and is weathered, but would not use it on new chrome, especially show chrome