Chrome actuator handle???

[dprat1]

Greetings,
I have seen where some have had the actuator handle chromed. Were any originally chromed? I have sent parts for chrome to Speed & Sport, including the handle, for an estimate. Having second thoughts about a chromed handle if not original finish. A buffed out finish did not look to bad and I seem to remember these as always grey looking. Was thinking chrome would "fancy it up" alittle but also want stay original as possible.
Thank you,
doug

[MoonDawg]

Aluminum handle can be polished to look like new, but will turn grey in time.  Chrome is the way to go.

[Jim]

Doug,

Although, I have never done this, you could polish the handle to a nice bright finish and then clear coat the handle... If you use the machine on a regular basis, this may cause the clear coat to wear quickly. If the latter isn't true, the clear coat should last while keeping the bright finish.
You may even consider a clear powder coating if it's available...
In either event, make sure you dis-assemble the crank handle. You should also send the backing plate the get re-zinc plated.
To aid in disassembly/re-assembly, I have posted a short tutorial:

Large door coin mech issues, Crank and free vend problems

[Creighton]

Best I can tell from watching the orginal machines is the paddle is not chromed. I just hit mine with a polish of "mothers" alum. wheel polish now and again. The chromed paddles look great and would be much easier to maintain. Comes down to where you draw the line of total orginal versus better than new restoration.
Creighton

[BrianB]

Creighton is right, the handles aren't originally chrome plated. If you want to keep it original, keep it polished aluminium, polish it and either: #1 - keep it polished #2 - Clearcoat it.  #3 - There's a product that Eastwood sells called "Zoop". It's specifically formulated and made to seal and protect aluminium surfaces. It isn't permanent, but keeps the shine looking awesome for a long time between "treatments".

[dprat1]

Thanks for all the input. Was all very helpful info. Guess just need to ponder and make a decision. And thanks Jim for the tutorial. I had already disassembled the handle and figured I would worry about putting back togeather when needed. Now I need not worry '>

doug

[Creighton]

A question not too far off the thread. Was red paint in the "Press Down" engraving ever factory?  I think it looks nice and enamel would be very cool.
Thanks!
Creighton

[Jim]

Creighton,

I don't remember seeing any documentation or any original machine with red letters; but I do agree, it looks nice!

[Creighton]

Thanks Jim!
Creighton

[sodaworks]

Chrome it!!! '>

It has been years, but I used to use a product named "semi-chrome" to clean and polish parts on my motorcycles.  It worked great and left a protective coating. Anyone know if its still out there, and has anyone tried it?

[davethebirdman]

I'm really glad I stopped by on this topic and also had a look at the previous linked issue of the handle and the way it comes to bits. I'm about ready to send my handle off to be re-chromed. (Went for that option rather than spending hours trying to get a shine)

I have a couple of questions.

1. What appears to be the purpose of the spring inside the handle?? If I look down the shaft it would appear that the spring is self contained within its little chamber.

2. I appreciate Glenn's advice about stripping it all down before sending off. Something I probably would not have done. However, my chamber cover and shaft are rusty. By removing the spring and then assembling it again will this eleviate the freezing and therefore allow the rest of the handle to be chromed?? (Hope that makes sense. Its late here and my head hurts)

Cheers

Dave