restoring plated plastic parts

[Griffer]

Hi there,

I have a plastic bumper that I have modified on a 1/43 die cast, is there a way to re-finish chrome parts? Some has rubbed off as I've handled the part showing the black plastic beneath. I do have access to a cheap airbrush, or is there some form of spray available?

Thanks in advance.
Steve

[dr_gn]

Griffer said:

Hi there,

I have a plastic bumper that I have modified on a 1/43 die cast, is there a way to re-finish chrome parts? Some has rubbed off as I've handled the part showing the black plastic beneath. I do have access to a cheap airbrush, or is there some form of spray available?

Thanks in advance.
Steve

Could try Alclad, or even that chrome spray that Halfords sell.

[Red Firecracker]

Ah, the perennial problem.

First thing to ask yourself, are you likely to touch it again. Ever? This has a big effect on what you should use. Things like PlastiKote Metallic Silver will tarnish over time, and a clear coat will not help you. There is a powder available from Japan called Kosutte Gin San which you apply over a gloss black basecoat, like Alclad. It's not bad, but again, will tarnish, especially if you touch it.

It is possible to get plastic bits re-chromed, but the only place I've found so far that entertains small pieces is in America, so it's a case of collecting lots of bits to send at once to make it viable. Which is a pain.

Whatever you do do not use the 'chrome' spray available from Homebase. It isn't, in any shape or form, chrome.

For most diecast (Corgi, Dinky, Matchbox) I tend to use PlastiKote, for more specialist models, Alclad or Kosutte Gin San.

[dr_gn]

Course there's always Bare Metal Foil if it's a simple geometry?

[Big Fat Fatty]

I've found a cheaper alternative to Kosutte Gin San (is that right?)

It's called MGM Super Magic Powder (ridiculous name but it is Japanese )and is essentially the same stuff only a fifth of the price, it still comes from Japan but shipping is free from the bay. Just search MGM Super Powder and you should find it easily enough, it comes in a range of colours but the one you'll need is "Black"

I bought two packs but needn't have, it goes a long way but you must be careful with it i.e. at the very least a mask and gloves are needed to use it. As Red Firecracker said, apply over a gloss black base and buff until it looks like chrome, the base must be absolutely perfectly flat though to get a proper chrome finish.

Or as Dr_Gn says, Bare Metal Foil is also very good for chrome trim like window frames and grilles (on cars), it needs delicate handling though to not crease it

hope it helps

Edited by Big Fat Fatty on Monday 6th February 14:07