Customs Chrome/Stainless on a 1951 Merc

Hello all,

I wanted to know if anyone here knows what it costs to get all of the external parts re-chromed and stainless polished on a 51 Merc? I am in San Antonio but I don't mind shipping it all.

Thanks!

Matt

 

Mat, that is an extremely difficult question to answer as each part has to be seen and evaluated as to its complexity, size, type of material and current condition which determines the amount of time, labor and materials required to restore it to the level of perfection you desire. As you know, chrome plating and stainless restoration is very expensive- especially if you want "show quality." I would venture to say you should set aside $10K.
Here's a start.
http://www.paulschrome.com/index.php/our-pricing/price-ranges and
http://atlaschrome.com/price-guide.html and
http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=596161

 

Thanks for getting back to me so quickly. I guess I should have said, I am looking for someone that has just finished doing their Merc and what was the cost. My parts are in really good shape, except for some pitting on the elephant ears above the front bumper. I got a ballpark quote for 15k which I think it out of the ballpark. I am doing a driver, not a show car.

Cheers!

Matt

 

Matt, Here is a company that has 3 levels of chrome plating at varying prices. This may be the direction you want to go so as to save $$$. Whatever you decide do not use Bumper Boys. Do a search on HAMB and you will see why.
http://www.ogdenchrome.com/

 

A buffer wheel and some rouge would get the stainless shiny but chrome plating can get expensive. The turn signal extensions always get pimples so you have to find a shop that has a good rep with zinc die cast material repairs. Bumpers & overriders are expensive just due to the size alone. I used to work with an outfit that deplated the parts for me then I do the repairs & most of the polishing then I take them back for the copper, nickel, & chrome with them doing the final polish. It is labor intensive and the EPA regulation drive the cost way up.

You might just want to do a bit at a time instead of doing it all at once. A lot of platers get an attitude if you drag in more work than they can do in a few days. They don't have to meet a drawn out schedule with deadlines that way.