Joe...
Some food for thought...
I've always been concerned about weakening the metal (as you have
obviously shown the same concern.) . See this question and answer link:
http://www.finishing.com/2200-2399/2278.html
Click on "Zinc" :
http://www.metalsurfaces.com/Processes/Milspec/milspec.asp#zinc
Types of Zinc Processes
http://www.iams.org/iamsorg/p2iris/metalfinish/1254-p.htm
For most parts, I doubt there's much reason for concern. (And they do
have the oven trick for some applications!) However, dollar for
dollar, I'm more inclined to have parts bead blasted and then powder
coated. (In a light color if the ability to look for cracks is key.)
Neither are expensive propositions if done in bulk, rather than a part at
a time.
On the other hand.... plating would be nice... And plating in Zinc is
not nearly as expensive as chrome plating. (i.e. the economics of
doing-it-yourself might not be as attractive as you thought. And don't
forget, you would have these chemicals hanging around your garage!)
I guess I'm not much help here! : )
--Justin Wagner
jaboruch wrote:
> I am refurbishing my front suspension, since it probably has not been
> apart for 20 + years. Rather than painting the A-arms, I am
> considering plating them. That way, they will be easier to check for
> cracks, paint won't be chipping off, etc. Have any of you Listers
> used the Eastwood or similar kits? For the $70 purchase price I
> figure it will be less than the plating companies would be charging.
> The Tin-Zinc would also not have the hydrogen embrittlement concern
> that chrome plating would present (as well as some nickel platings).
> Joe(B)
> Only $9.95 per month!
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