This process seems to work great for parts that don't experience wear...

For parts that get scratched a lot, or get a lot of friction, it may rub through and rust...

But for cosmetics, I suspect the powdercoat will hold its appearance better...

Again, I wish I could had done CAD, but it wasn't practical. I couldn't find one place in southeast wisconsin that would do it. Most didnt even return phone calls.

The thought of sending irreplaceable really expensive Ferrari parts cross country is beyond my comfort level. One engine mount is $500... If you can get one... Eeeek...

Shaun, you don't have an outlet in Milwaukee, do you ? :)

Plating is what I do. Cadmium, zinc, powder coating, bright dip+anodize... :)

My job is basically surface prep so when I bring parts to one of the best platers in the country, the parts are always perfect and the plating lasts forever. It's tons of fun and I love what I do!

If you like, I could fly out to WI and pick up some parts. :D

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1451360638.jpg


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1451360850.jpg


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1451360867.jpg


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1451361029.jpg


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1451361051.jpg

Great thread!

Shaun, those are purdy parts... :D

David

Great idea. Thx for sharing

Plating isn't forever. Atmospheric and salt spray exposure can take its toll.

Ceramic coating seems to be quite long lasting.

Powder coating has its place, but in some applications there are some disadvantages with its thicker coating thickness.

For greatest longevity, look for standard ASTM salt spray test comparisons. You can find some on the internet. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salt_spray_test

Corrosion resistance is constantly evolving:
Powder Coating vs. Electrocoating : Products Finishing

E-Coating vs Powder coating:
E-Coating vs. Powder Coating - Sharretts Plating Blog

Sherwood

Zinc is rated for 1000 hours in a salt spray before it corrodes...

But somehow, that's never been my experience.

Within a year or three, under near optimal conditions, it fades, discolors, and starts turning white...in the engine bay at least...

I have dropped screws or nuts in the summer, find them on my driveway in November, and they are completely discolored...

Anyone else notice that?

Zinc plating is CAD plating-lite. You're right about the longevity of zinc plating. Application might make a difference as well.

Sherwood