Chrome Care
09-19-2007, 09:25 PM
#2
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Chrome plating is a coating that consists of at least 3 layers of metal....it does not "breathe" any more or less than the base surface.
If a ferrous (steel) base metal was not properly prepped before plating, it can rust from the inside out. If there is a flaw in the plating, and the steel part becomes exposed, it will also rust.
Think of chrome as not much different than paint. If you paint over rust, expect the rust to reappear soon. If you chip the paint, expect the bare spot to rust too
Waxing won't hurt nor help the actual corrosion protection chrome plating provides, but it does tend to enhance the shine and clarity of the finish, and will also help prevent light surface scratches in the finish from wiping it.
If a ferrous (steel) base metal was not properly prepped before plating, it can rust from the inside out. If there is a flaw in the plating, and the steel part becomes exposed, it will also rust.
Think of chrome as not much different than paint. If you paint over rust, expect the rust to reappear soon. If you chip the paint, expect the bare spot to rust too
Waxing won't hurt nor help the actual corrosion protection chrome plating provides, but it does tend to enhance the shine and clarity of the finish, and will also help prevent light surface scratches in the finish from wiping it.
09-19-2007, 09:29 PM
#3
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I smother my chrome with a paste wax. I buy Turtle Wax in a can at the $1 Store and wax away...
Metal.................Breathe?
Metal.................Breathe?
09-19-2007, 09:31 PM
#4
Safety Car
Thread Starter
Thanks, Tom and Glenn. You pretty much covered it! 
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The knowledge and quick response of the members here never ceases to amaze me!
C5 General never lets me down!
The knowledge and quick response of the members here never ceases to amaze me!
09-20-2007, 06:39 AM
#5
Uber Waxer
glass cleaner does a great job cleaning chrome too in my experience. paste wax to protect it.
09-20-2007, 07:31 AM
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I have always put a good coat of car wax on my chrome wheels and they have never had any problems with the wheels.
Works like a charm.
BIGHANK
09-21-2007, 03:54 PM
#11
Team Owner
09-21-2007, 04:31 PM
#12
Team Owner
09-21-2007, 08:12 PM
#14
Safety Car
Thread Starter
Thanks for the replies people. I guess that puts to rest the old wive's tale about "breathing" chrome! I'll just continue to do what I've been doing. Using glass cleaner to clean and wax to protect.
