how to chrome parts?

[rayu1988]

Hello everyone. Over the weekend I read a lot of old posts and have a couple of questions. One guy was not satisfied with the condition of the chrome parts in a secondhand kit, and he said he "re-did the chrome". Is this Alclad or another system or technique I am unfamiliar with. Most of these resin kits need something chromed. Also, one guy said he laid his decals down with Future so that they wouldn't bubble or rise. Is this before or after the gloss coat? Thanks for any help. Always looking for the little secrets.

[harron68]

Tutorials on model club sites and You Tube on using Alclad. It's a bit pricey, but beats the cost of sending it out for the real thing. Alclad, done well is very very good.

[rayu1988]

Thanks. I will search out the videos this weekend.

[roadhawg]

Chrome Alclad is pretty good, but looks more like polished Aluminum than Chrome plating. Both the rear bumper on the '55 and the wheels on this race car are done in chrome Alclad:





It takes a little practice, but it's not difficult. Your parts need to be as smooth as possible, then painted with a gloss black enamel. Spray the Alclad in light coats at low pressure. Like he said above, the videos will help you.
If it's the true chrome plated look you want, you'll have to send the parts out to be rechromed. Check with Chrome Tech USA ( www.chrometechusa.com/model-cars-and-collectibles.html ) or Little Motor Kar Company ( no website, email at [e-mail] or call [phone])

As far as using Future with decals, I've never done that but I HAVE heard of it....I think the way they do that is brush on some Future and place the decal over it, letting the Future act as a setting solution.

[rayu1988]

Thanks, Roadhawg

[Nacho Z]

Another product I've read about, (but never used), is Spaz Stix. They have a variety of products.