Window Frames painted Black by PO

[blau911]

Guys,
The PO of my 73T painted all of the window frames black. I am not sure if it's because the chrome finish was badly scratched or he just liked the look.
Here is the question... I believe that the early SWB (i.e. 1965-68) window frames were chrome plated with bronze underneath. Were the later (1969-73) window frames aluminum alloy or chrome plated as well? If they are aluminum and not chrome plated, shouldn't I be able to just polish the black paint and any light scratches out without wearing down the finish?

[Burint]

blau911
I sent out my 1970 window frame to be machine polished.
It looks good but the polishing also took away the clear anodized from the surface.
I was able to get rid off the tiny scratches and it still shinny after one year.

[joefrantz]

Blau

The frames on your car, if original, are annodized aluminum . Annodizing is very hard, so it will tolerate some polisihing, but you can wear through it -- as Burint indicates.

Depending on how much complexity you are up for, you can remove the frames and strip them with paint stripper. The stripper will not harm the annodizing, and will get you back to the pre-painted surface. The problem is the stripper will attack the rubber of the window seals, and probably the fuzzy window track material, so the frame should be disassembled if you're going to try this . You could also replace the seals and track in the process.

It is a lot of work though. The doors are fairly easy. The rear quarter windows are tougher, and the rear window and winshield are the toughest. The up side is that you end up with the original finish on the frames and all new seals.

Good Luck

Joe

[bluesky]

Originally Posted by blau911

Guys,
The PO of my 73T painted all of the window frames black. I am not sure if it's because the chrome finish was badly scratched or he just liked the look.
Here is the question... I believe that the early SWB (i.e. 1965-68) window frames were chrome plated with bronze underneath. Were the later (1969-73) window frames aluminum alloy or chrome plated as well? If they are aluminum and not chrome plated, shouldn't I be able to just polish the black paint and any light scratches out without wearing down the finish?

The frames for 69-73 coupes were bright-dipped anodized aluminum. The frames for 69-73 Targas were chrome plated.

I had the same issue as you where the PO had painted my coupe's frames black. I ended up sending mine off to have them re-stored to a bright-dip anodized finish.

[Zeke]

Joe, I got some paint remover on some AL ano trim and it streaked it. Made it dull. It wouldn't polish back out. I don't recommend what you are saying. I'd try to use acetone or other thinners. Not good for the seal, but it will live if washed thoroughly.