How to remove chrome from wheels?

Ryce Stallings · 08-16-2005, 01:00 PM

I have a set of Design 90 wheels that where chromed and it's coming off in places. What is the best way to remove the nickel?

So far the best ideas are acid dipping or light sandblasting.

Do you know better?

Elu · 08-16-2005, 01:33 PM

I've only heard of acid dipping working for chrome removal. Are you going to have them re-chromed or painted?

sammyg2 · 08-16-2005, 02:39 PM

Acid or a big-a$$ grinder.

Fishcop · Fishcop's Garage

I had the chrome removed from fuchs (idiot PO) by taking them to a chromer where they reverse the polarity in the bath... basically it dissolves the chrome from the wheel gently.

Ryce Stallings · 08-17-2005, 03:28 PM

Fishcop..That sounds likea better idea. I'm going to ask about that!

No I'm not going to rechrome them. I will either powder coat or Wurth wheel paint.

TC_SJ · 08-17-2005, 04:17 PM

When I bought my TL Cab 1987, the wheel came with chrome and now starting to peel off, I really want to remove the chrome and make the wheel look like polish, but do know where to start.

Still looking for shop in the Bay Area to have it done, possible cost a huge $$$$$

Yellowbird RS · 08-17-2005, 04:26 PM

Sodium hydroxide at 8-12 oz/gal (w/v) works well for electrostripping chromium from carbon steel substrates. The bath can be operated at ambient temperature or higher, at a current density of 0.25 - 1.0 amp/sq.in. The fumes evolved are toxic and must be evacuated and scrubbed. The bath starts out as a simple solution of caustic soda but acquires an increasing component of a hexavalent chromium compound as the metallic chromium is electrostripped from the workpieces. The spent solution is hazardous waste and must be properly disposed.

Ryce Stallings · 08-17-2005, 04:31 PM

Yellowbird RS is that process done by a commercial chrome plater or is it more specialized than that.

Ryce Stallings · 08-17-2005, 04:32 PM

The wheels are design 90 and are aluminum. Will the same process work?

Yellowbird RS · 08-17-2005, 04:41 PM

That's the commercial process.
For aluminim you may use silver glossy anodize

alfizzo · 08-17-2005, 06:11 PM

i wouldnt use caustic for stripping aluminum rims. the way anzures posted is for steel. the chrome can be quickly removed with hcl then nitric acid can strip the nickel and clean up the aluminum. however i dont think you are a plater and have access to these chemical or have the means to dispose of the hazardous waste. your best bet is to have a professional do it and pay for it or do it your self and send the toxic waste down the drain or to a landfill. its rather funny how most people approve of tougher enviromental laws but when it has to come out of their pocket they are always shocked on how much it cost and try to find way to avoid paying. its no wonder china has killed so many manufacturing companies in the usa.

Ryce Stallings · 08-18-2005, 03:12 AM

Alfizzo I wasn't even considering doing this myself. But I agree with your point.

scottb · 08-18-2005, 07:15 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ryce Stallings
No I'm not going to rechrome them. I will either powder coat or Wurth wheel paint.

If your wheels are anything like Fuchs, it's possible they'll be pitted once the chrome is removed.

techweenie · techweenie's Garage

Most of the wheel refinishers will do this. I know Wheel Enhancement does, but I'm sure there's somebody closer. When the pros do it, the wheel surface is left undamaged.