SMC Discussion Areas

I am restoring a Vendo 56 Square top and have a few questions in regards to the Coin Bezel (pictures includedO):

1. I need to get this re-chromed.  Does anyone have any idea of the cost to do this?  I know it depends on the area you are in and the local shopsf, but just a general idea would be appreciated.
2. There is a slight bend in the Bezel (not completely evident in the picture).  Any thoughts on how to fix this as I don't want to just try and bend it and end up breaking it?

Thanks

Sorry, second picture included now.

Have no idea how much it would cost to re-chrome but have you tried giving it a good polish, perhaps with a wheel.
Chroming is a very expensive option and may be prohibitive on a square top, unless of course its to keep.

With regrad to the bend, would it not draw back in when tightened?

Dave,

Thanks for the follow up.   This machine is for me which is why I was considering the rechroming, but of course have no idea of the expense to do this since I am new to this.  In regards to the bend I don't think it will straighten out when installed as I have tried this once already, but I may try it again.   

There is usually a minimum amount for chroming. It will cost quite a lot just to do that small piece. DO you have anything else you want done? Eiether that or call Eric at Global Compressors / Kustom Khrome and he may be able to do it for less. He has a new way of chroming with paint and it comes out looking great. I don't know if he has a minimum but I will almost guarantee that his price will be considerably less than traditional Chrome. While I have not seen his work in person I have seen pics and heard from other members that his work is really good. He is also one of the nicest people you will meet and is always willing to help out.

loman4ec,

Thanks for the advice.  I don't think I have anything else that needsd chroming, but I will recheck that as your piont is very valid.  I will also follow up with Erik

Just in case you dont have it here is his contact info.

Kustom Krome  Chrome and Colored Chrome plating.
14305 River Rd.
New Braunfels, TX. 78132
phone...830 964 4998

Think Eric mentioned his tanks had dried up over the summer. Wasn't worth it to refill. Give him a call to check.
Creighton

I would be careful trying to bend it back into shape!
Not sure if heat wouldn't be necessary to reshape it and that would most likely necessitate re-chroming. Best to leave well enough alone!
A good chrome shop could straighten it, but $$$...

I have used Triple-Plating and Chrome in Spokane, WA.  I have tried estimating in the past being so new into the game and ended up just sending my pieces off for a free estimate.  They evaluated the pieces within 2 business days.  I have 8 pieces re-finished, 6 pieces were polished, and 2 were re-chromed.  The price was $160.00.  They will glad spit payments until you have paid in full. 

I would caution you chroming isn't cheap but it looks very nice.  You make look at purchasing a polishing wheel, and some compound.  I know Funtronics sells a polishing wheel on a 1/4 inch drive along with a rubbing compound kit.  That is my plan to practice on a few items and see how it turns out.

Good Luck.

Slapshot42,

Thanks for the recommendations/advice.  I am new to the game also.  I just purchased a polishing wheel and some compound and will try that on some items moving forward also.   

Thanks

I have two of those bezels for a 56 I'm working on. One i bought for Pat (thanks again pat, the parts fit perfectly.) Both have an identical bend. I actually thinking they were made that way as mine came from different machines on different sides of the country and match exactly.

Maybe one of the more experienced guys will know if this is a weird coincidence or it's supposed to be that way.