Chrome paint on "Rides" [Archive] - Chevelle Tech

: Chrome paint on "Rides"


Olle
Apr 20th, 05, 10:41 AM
I watched "Rides" yesterday, and they showed how they built the cars for "XXX". One thing they showed very briefly was a chrome-like finish that they sprayed on with a spray gun. Seeing the spray go on looked almost like when that guy in "Terminator" changed shape... very weird. Does anyone know anything about this paint?

Emptytank
Apr 20th, 05, 11:25 AM
Like this stuff?

http://www.caswellplating.com/kits/silvaspray.html

J70Chev
Apr 20th, 05, 11:39 AM
It's made by Alsa Corp. I looked in to this for doing a fiberglass bumper but haven't moved forward yet. Their website is www.alsacorp.com (http://www.alsacorp.com) I think for a complete kit of the spray chrome which is 1 pint the guy told me like 300.something dollars. I think there is alot of prep work that has to go in, but I'd be interested in knowing if anybody takes this one. That would be the best to chrom paint fiberglass bumpers.

1966_L78
Apr 20th, 05, 11:52 AM
I just got my NEW Summit catalog (with a blown/injected "Pewter"colored 65 Impala on the cover)...

Anyway, the "article" about the Impala mentions that they had the fiberglass bumpers Chromed (shop called XXX Plating?, unsure of location).

It said there was alot of prep needed, but from the pictures and the text, they are supposed to look like real chrome (I guess like dash chrome)...

J70Chev
Apr 20th, 05, 12:05 PM
is XXX plating the name, or did you X out the name for this post? I have checked in to plating the fiberglass and everybody said they couldn't do it or it would be a million bucks to get done. Another alternative I looked in to is Vaccuum Metalizing, which puts the item into a chamber then vaporizes aluminum particles then it electronically bonds to the part but the longerst anybody can do is 50" long.

Olle
Apr 20th, 05, 12:16 PM
It's made by Alsa Corp. I looked in to this for doing a fiberglass bumper but haven't moved forward yet. Their website is www.alsacorp.com (http://www.alsacorp.com/) .

Are you sure this is the company? I checked their web site, and it says that it requires a black base coat, much like Alclad II (http://www.alclad2.com/), but the item (whatever it was) they painted on the show was white.

J70Chev
Apr 20th, 05, 12:20 PM
Yes this is the company, they even have a little link to a section that shows them fliming for Rides. And I think that you do have to have a black basecoat to spray the chrome on. Unless it's a different product you're looking at because they make tons of different types of finishes.

Olle
Apr 20th, 05, 12:24 PM
You're right, they have different products and the first one I saw was used on a black base coat so I assumed that you used that for all of them. Just found a video that looks like the one they showed on TV. Here's a link (http://alsacorp.com/products/chromefx/images/CfxVidWM1.jpg). Looks pretty weird when that paint goes on, doesn't it? :)

1966_L78
Apr 20th, 05, 1:29 PM
is XXX plating the name, or did you X out the name for this post?

"XXX Plating" was the name ( of course, I may have got it wrong)...

The article (I think) said they were fiberglass with alot of prep work...

I have no idea of the process, but I would assume the vacuum metalizing (as I too thought you couldn't do regular plating on fiberglass (electro-plating)...

May that company has equippment to do longer pieces...

Byfield
Apr 20th, 05, 1:36 PM
"XXX" on Rides is a reference to the movie "XXX - State of the Union"

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0329774/

Olle
Apr 20th, 05, 1:46 PM
Another alternative I looked in to is Vaccuum Metalizing, which puts the item into a chamber then vaporizes aluminum particles then it electronically bonds to the part but the longerst anybody can do is 50" long.

Who did you talk to? I have some vacuum plating links at home, and I think I have seen pictures of a pretty big vacuum chamber somewhere.

hot67
Apr 20th, 05, 1:53 PM
Got the Summit catalog yesterday- damn impressive chroming job on that glass bumper. It was, in fact, done by a company called XXX Plating. Check 'em out...


www.xxxplating.com

XXXChromePlating
Apr 20th, 05, 9:28 PM
Yes the NEW Summit catalog features chromed fiberglass bumpers (with a blown/injected "Pewter" colored 65 Impala on the cover) done by XXX Chrome Plating (xxxplating.com). We are in Wisconsin and have a few dealers around the country.

Thanks for all of the good feedback. I've not yet had the chance to view the Summit Catalog to tell you the truth but hear it looks good and I appreciate the praise.

Please know that XXX Chrome Plating does many fiberglass bumpers and plastic parts weekly in a multitude of colors. We offer great products at fair prices with exceptional turnaround times. Check out the gallery on our site for a few more ideas. We'll be updating this page regularly.

Again, thanks for the feedback.

X

Olle
Apr 20th, 05, 9:45 PM
Well, speaking of the devil :D Thanks for the info, I'm sure a lot of people here will be interested!

J70Chev
Apr 20th, 05, 10:54 PM
XXX thanks for chiming in. I tried the # but got a sprint voicemail, and the services part of your site dosen't seem to work. So since we got ya here, how much would it cost to chrome a pair of glass bumpers? how do you guys do it, with Vaccuum metalizing, or a spray? any additional info would be great, and if the prices are right I'll definately be calling!!

thanks!

Chris R
Apr 20th, 05, 10:59 PM
I thought this was going to be some shop in California. Seems everything is out there. Then XXXplating comes in and mentions being in Wisconsin. Very cool. I will have to keep you guys in mind.

SSx3
Apr 21st, 05, 11:07 AM
For those curious heres a couple of shots of a BMW show car right out of the booth(w/out motor) done in this type of paint before SEMA last October and one of an Audi A8 in the middle east. Now if I could remember the thread I was in... when I saved the pics, I thought it'd be cool too paint fiberglass bumpers with it.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v472/Rollin02/outsidex2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v472/Rollin02/outsidex3.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v472/Rollin02/568621_3_full.jpg

J70Chev
Apr 21st, 05, 11:46 AM
Was this painted with some kind of paint from Alsa Corp?

Olle
Apr 21st, 05, 12:03 PM
BLING-BLING! :eek: :eek: :eek:

XXXChromePlating
Apr 21st, 05, 2:52 PM
Yeah it has been a bit crazy for us. Lots of people are talking about the Summit catalog. Can't complain about that.

To answer your questions though, we redesigned our site a few weeks ago and are still making changes. We are testing out live chat and a few other things so the site has maybe a day or two of development work. All of the contact links are working fine from what we see in the inbox and contact form database. And of course live chat is up.

Regarding the process, this is not vaccum metalizing or electroplating or mirror-chrome paint. It is chemical metalizing. The cost of any chroming services is truly based on the prep work necessary but that is of course included in the price. We do fiberglass bumpers weekly. Check out our gallery www.xxxplating.com/gallery.html for a look at our capabilities.

I look forward to getting an email or phone call. If you can email us a picture of your part(s) that would help us a great deal with providing you with an accurate quote.

Thanks for your interest.
X

Byfield
Apr 21st, 05, 2:53 PM
Hey XXX - Are you going to be at Jefferson or Iola this year?

XXXChromePlating
Apr 21st, 05, 3:00 PM
Always wanted to chrome a HUMMER myself. We may be at Jefferson but not IOLA. BTW guys ALSA didn't do this car. There were 2 of them at SEMA, one may have had a chrome process but it was roped off so you couldnt' really tell upclose. This car was done in Germany or somewhere overseas I believe and its not actually chrome plated but polished metal.

SSx3
Apr 21st, 05, 3:30 PM
I found some more info on it. This M3 is apparently painted and out of Canada although the guy who painted it had to go to Italy to learn to do it. Here's the link's one, to a paint process in the side script on page 3 and the other to more pictures on the main site. The last one is to the guys Cardomain site: Mag spread (http://chromem3.com/max1.htm), Main page (http://chromem3.com/index2.htm) and Cardomain Desert pics and info (http://www.cardomain.com/memberpage/739999)

mc71454
Apr 21st, 05, 10:19 PM
Ok, This is great...I need a fiberglass bumper for my '71 monte chromed. I will take pictures of it and post them on Friday. I am trying to take weight off this car but would like to still look stock as possible and this will fit the need.

micky69396
Apr 21st, 05, 10:37 PM
My shop has just purchased a spray chroming system, we should be up and running with it in a few weeks we hope.

XXXChromePlating
Apr 21st, 05, 10:51 PM
Ok, This is great...I need a fiberglass bumper for my '71 monte chromed. I will take pictures of it and post them on Friday. I am trying to take weight off this car but would like to still look stock as possible and this will fit the need.
Tom,

That's the #1 reason I have so much bumper business. I just posted some of our finished bumpers on the gallery page. Take a look. http://www.xxxplating.com/gallery.html

mc71454
Apr 22nd, 05, 10:01 AM
Tom,

That's the #1 reason I have so much bumper business. I just posted some of our finished bumpers on the gallery page. Take a look. http://www.xxxplating.com/gallery.html

I saw the pics and am impressed with the results. Thanks !!

I guess I would like to know the magnitude of the possible cost for this work? I understand cost will vary, but is it $200 or $1000.

What state the bumper should be in when you get it. If I have to still do
some drilling through the bumper for fitment will it be OK like it was paint?

Is the coating brittle?

What about the bumper flexing a little at 130 mph?

I am thinking of making aluminum bumper brakets to hold the bumper in the factory locations using factory bumper bolts.

I know a lot of questions thanks for taking the time...

XXXChromePlating
Apr 22nd, 05, 2:32 PM
I saw the pics and am impressed with the results. Thanks !!

I guess I would like to know the magnitude of the possible cost for this work? I understand cost will vary, but is it $200 or $1000.

What state the bumper should be in when you get it. If I have to still do
some drilling through the bumper for fitment will it be OK like it was paint?

Is the coating brittle?

What about the bumper flexing a little at 130 mph?

I am thinking of making aluminum bumper brakets to hold the bumper in the factory locations using factory bumper bolts.

I know a lot of questions thanks for taking the time...
Tom,

Cost is really based on the condition of the part(s) received. For instance, if we receive something that’s brand new, the cost is relatively minimal because we have to put less work into prepping before chroming. If a part is older and rusted or damaged, cost will likely be more on the high end.

There is also what we call a “good, better, best” scenario. To achieve a “good” quality chrome appearance, we will do a one coat XXX Foundation coat and then chrome on top of that, which means most imperfection that are in the parts will show. The next step is “better” our most popular step, this level will get two to three coats of XXX Foundation coat and wet sanding in between, this will give your part a much better appearance and will fill most of the pin holes you will find in coating fiberglass. The “better” step is what is on the car that is in summit magazine. It’s great for show and go cars. The next and last step is “best”. This step will give you the ultimate quality and is usually reserved for the best of the best indoor show cars that are held to the highest level. This step will give you 3 to 6 coats of XXX Foundation coats with block sanding and wet sanding between each coat, this step with eliminate big dips and bows that you will find in molded fiberglass bumpers. The pricing for the various steps are as follows: “good” $165-$200 “better” $200-$300 and “best” $300-$600.

To answer your question about durability, XXX Chrome Plating has developed a 5th generation of protective coating, which has been tested to give you 5000 hours of salt and sand. That’s over twice the UV protection of paint (so XXX Chrome Plating will never yellow). It is also chemical resistant against brake fluid, gasoline and even acetone. It has no problem with standing well over 200mph trap speeds. It is extremely flexible.

To address your question about drilling and mounting, XXX Chrome Plating is a multi-level process that is best left unaltered after the process is finished. So it is best to have all holes cut and mount modifications done before the bumpers are sent to me.

When we receive a part(s) we prefer them to have been 1000 grit wet sanded with all holes and mounting done prior to chroming. You can use any primer bondo and filler you want, understanding that the products you use needs to be flexible if your bumpers flex a lot.

Hope that helps,
X

mc71454
Apr 22nd, 05, 4:58 PM
Tom,

Hope that helps,

X


That helps alot..Thank You..

I will be doing this as soon as possible and likely go the better route unless the bumper is really rough once I get into it and then I would choose the best route .

I already have the bumper, so I will start fabricating my brackets and prepping the bumper this weekend...:)

Rumblin70SS
Apr 24th, 05, 2:23 PM
XXXChromePlating,

I'm also looking to do the same as Tom in plating fiberglass bumpers, both front and rear. I'm thinking of using the glasstek pieces for my 1970 Chevelle, which includes the bumper pad molded into the fiberglass bumper. On my car, this is a black rubberized piece on the original chrome bumper attached with adhesive. A picture is attached below. Is there some way to address this with a plated fiberglass bumper? Is it possible that the bumper could be plated and this black piece outlined and painted on top of the plating?

http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/Rumblin70SS/tc038.jpg

I appreciate your time and any thoughts on this.

Thank You!

XXXChromePlating
Apr 24th, 05, 4:39 PM
XXXChromePlating,

I'm also looking to do the same as Tom in plating fiberglass bumpers, both front and rear. I'm thinking of using the glasstek pieces for my 1970 Chevelle, which includes the bumper pad molded into the fiberglass bumper. On my car, this is a black rubberized piece on the original chrome bumper attached with adhesive. A picture is attached below. Is there some way to address this with a plated fiberglass bumper? Is it possible that the bumper could be plated and this black piece outlined and painted on top of the plating?

http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/Rumblin70SS/tc038.jpg

I appreciate your time and any thoughts on this.

Thank You!


Rumblin70SS,

Yes there is a way to address this. Yes the bumper can definitely be plated and yes the black insert can be outlined and painted. In fact, we can do both the chroming and the painting.

As I mentioned before, XXX Chrome Plating is a multi-level process that is best left unaltered after the process is finished. So it is best to have all holes cut and mount modifications done before the bumpers are sent to me.

When we receive a part(s) we prefer them to have been 1000 grit wet sanded with all holes and mounting done prior to chroming. You can use any primer bondo and filler you want, understanding that the products you use needs to be flexible if your bumpers flex a lot.

If you're interested in having us handle the job please send your contact info via email info@xxxplating.com or through our site http://www.xxxplating.com/contact.asp

Thanks for your interest.
X

mc71454
Apr 29th, 05, 8:12 AM
Man this fiberglass stuff is "Rough" Still trying to install my directional lights so they fit right.

Rumblin70SS
Apr 29th, 05, 8:38 AM
X,

Thanks for all the info and time, I do appreciate it! I'll be in touch shortly, just need to get the bumpers and move the project along a little.

Tom,

What bumper are you using? I looked at some bumpers and haven't seen any easy way to mount the directionals either without custom fabbing brackets and glassing them on.

Thanks,

J70Chev
Apr 29th, 05, 11:25 AM
Tony, Glasstek makes a bumper with the SS pad in it? any idea what it costs and how good the quality is? This might be the way to go especially if Kevin can do the whole paint job and clear it as one piece. I just got my summit cat. and I am definately having some glass bumpers done when I get the cash for my drag car.

Byfield
Apr 29th, 05, 11:27 AM
What kind of weight savings to you get from glass bumpers?

Rumblin70SS
Apr 29th, 05, 1:52 PM
J70Chev,

Glasstek does make the bumper with the SS pad already on it. Each bumper is about $160.00 plus shipping and I do not know the quality, but the hood I got from them is pretty nice, so I'm expecting the same out of the bumpers. All glass parts are far from perfect so expect to do some fitment and trimming. I'm thinking this will be the way I do go when I do the bumpers, starting with the front first!

Byfield,

I don't know the exact weight savings but I think a fair estimate would be 20 lbs per bumper.

Let me know if you have any additional questions!

Thanks,

Byfield
Apr 29th, 05, 1:59 PM
Thanks Tony!

mc71454
May 2nd, 05, 9:26 AM
Getting close to having my bumper ready.

XXX, what is the turnaround time on the bumper?

I have a Hemmings Race end of May I am trying to get ready for.

Thanks

Tom

XXXChromePlating
May 2nd, 05, 11:11 AM
Tom,

We can have it back to you 10-14 days after we receive it. If you need it rushed, we'll take care of you.

When you're ready to send any parts to us, print this form out http://www.xxxplating.com/servicerequest_form.pdf, fill-out the particulars (Mention Tom From Chevelle Tech) and send it with the parts.

Thanks for your business.

X

mc71454
May 2nd, 05, 12:05 PM
Great, Thanks..I will have it done as fast as I can...

Tom

Rumblin70SS
May 2nd, 05, 4:00 PM
Keep us informed...............mine will probably be next as I'm ordering the bumpers tomorrow..............

Thanks,

mc71454
May 8th, 05, 9:44 PM
X,

Thanks for all the info and time, I do appreciate it! I'll be in touch shortly, just need to get the bumpers and move the project along a little.

Tom,

What bumper are you using? I looked at some bumpers and haven't seen any easy way to mount the directionals either without custom fabbing brackets and glassing them on.

Thanks,


The bumper is from US Body Source.

I now remember why I don't do body work. Give me a transmission swap any day of the week.

mc71454
May 8th, 05, 9:57 PM
XXX,

Big Question here... What can I use to help get the scratches out...any kind of primer ?. Can I just use sandable primer?

I don't want to go through the gelcoat. I already have had to in some spots just to get it flush with the area around it.

I have it sanded with 600 so far. In realizing this is a race car/street car It doesn't need to be perfect, but I am willing to pay extra for a few more coats of foundation to make sure you are satisfied.

Also, along some of the edges there are some small nicks. I think I would rather leave them and get the area chromed, than try and fill them and have the filled area fall out while driving on the street. I need a "10" bumper...10 feet and 10 mph.

Would appreciate any advise...

Maybe I could give you a call during the day.

XXXChromePlating
May 9th, 05, 11:29 AM
Tom,

I recommend using a wet-sandable primer. If your scratches are really deep scratches use a glaze putty such as, 3M Pirahna or Icing. I'd also use this on the small nicks you've got.

My final suggestion would be to take it up one more step to 800 grit, wet sand the pieces and ship them out to us. We'll contact you once we've received the parts and with an exact quote before we start any work.

Thanks,
X

mc71454
May 9th, 05, 12:40 PM
Thanks...I will try that..

Tom

mc71454
May 10th, 05, 8:51 AM
Tom,

I recommend using a wet-sandable primer. If your scratches are really deep scratches use a glaze putty such as, 3M Pirahna or Icing. I'd also use this on the small nicks you've got.

My final suggestion would be to take it up one more step to 800 grit, wet sand the pieces and ship them out to us. We'll contact you once we've received the parts and with an exact quote before we start any work.

Thanks,
X


Well that stuff works real good. Had 2 1/2 hours in the bumper last night until 10:30 pm. Going at it again today. I will have it shippped out by Friday..

Tom

Olle
May 10th, 05, 10:00 AM
Must say that this thread took an interesting turn. Please keep us posted about the progress, Tom! :thumbsup:

mc71454
May 10th, 05, 11:36 AM
Must say that this thread took an interesting turn. Please keep us posted about the progress, Tom! :thumbsup:

Will do...Boy would I rather be tuning than doing body work :(

I will take some photos before I ship it out...

mc71454
May 11th, 05, 10:12 PM
OK, we are in primer and wet sanded to 400, will do to 800 tomorrow.

All holes drilled and squared off to fit the stock bumper bolts and license plate. Will be sending it out Friday and it should hit Wisconsin on Tuesday.

XXXChromePlating
May 12th, 05, 11:11 AM
Tom,

Sounds good. Your hardwork will pay off and we're looking forward to seeing your work. The cost benefit of you doing the prep work is beneficial when it comes to cost. We don't mind doing the prep work but it does require the cost to increase. You've just saved yourself a few hundred dollars.

We'll get you taken care of right away. Be sure to use the form at:
http://www.xxxplating.com/servicerequest_form.pdf . We've been getting a lot of parts with no communication about the part or what the customer needs done. Makes it difficult to plan.

Thanks for your hard work Tom.

Ollie,

You're right, I've been watching the thread and it looks like everyone is really interested in the process from the volume of calls we've been getting. Not to toot our own horn, but you guys will be impressed with the work we do.

Kevin
owner

mc71454
May 12th, 05, 1:07 PM
Hey Kevin,

Thanks...My buddy who owns and runs a restoration/race car shop has 3 cars front and rear fiberglass bumpers on hold and will be contacting you.

Vintage Auto (518) 580-9020.

Thanks

Tom

XXXChromePlating
May 12th, 05, 2:20 PM
Tom,

Thanks for the business. Look forward to hearing from him. We'll be sure to take care of him.

Kevin

mc71454
May 13th, 05, 4:53 PM
Kevin,

Bumper shipped out today Fedex Ground..Delivery scheduled for Tuesday. I filled out the form as you requested and it is in an envelope inside the bubble wrap. I labeled it "attention Kevin".

Ended up with a 1200 wet sand for good measure, it actually shines.

Tom

Chris R
May 13th, 05, 5:14 PM
Tom. Please post pics of the finished product. I would really be intrested in seeing this after it is done.

Midnight Marauder
May 13th, 05, 5:17 PM
Tom. Please post pics of the finished product. I would really be intrested in seeing this after it is done.

Ditto there. I would REALLY like to see how it turns out, Tom.

Chris R
May 13th, 05, 5:21 PM
Actually, I wouldnt mind seeing pics of it before Kevin starts working on it before hand too. At least some pics on your website of what a glass item should look like before you plate it would be nice too.

mc71454
May 13th, 05, 5:56 PM
MY Bad, I never took pics of the before...

Maybe XXX can if they don't mind..

Tom

Midnight Marauder
May 13th, 05, 5:58 PM
MY Bad, I never took pics of the before...

Maybe XXX can if they don't mind..

Tom

Awe yeah, Im all for XXX pics.

I await with angst. :D

Post up if and when you get em. Looking forward to seeing the end results.

Derek69SS
May 13th, 05, 6:02 PM
Awe yeah, Im all for XXX pics.......Looking forward to seeing the end results.

They call that the "Money Shot" ;)

XXXChromePlating
May 14th, 05, 1:05 PM
Tom,

1200 grit - Thanks for the extra elbow grease. We'll definitely take before and after pics when the bumpers arrive. We'll put them up in here as well as on the web site.

X

mc71454
May 16th, 05, 10:13 AM
Thanks Kevin,

Just to make sure there is no confusion I only sent the front bumper...

Don't have a rear one yet.

XXXChromePlating
May 16th, 05, 11:55 AM
Tom,

No problem. You need it back right away correct?

X

mc71454
May 16th, 05, 12:02 PM
Yes I do need it quickly unfortunately,

The only reason is that I would like to show it off at the The Hemmings Motor News Muscelpalooza Event at Lebanon Valley Dragway on May 27 and May 28.

Click on the Link Below...

http://www.hemmings.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/events.musclepalooza

This week I am making up brackets to mount it.

I really do appreciate all your help..

Tom

mc71454
May 17th, 05, 9:06 PM
Kevin,

The bumper is in Chicago as of 2:30 pm according to Fedex Ground. They expect delivery tomorrow 5/18.

jemal
May 18th, 05, 10:18 AM
i own a company called "ChromeOzone" Plating and Metal Finishing in Bloomfield,Ct. We chrome all types of metals and non conductive parts such as plastic, fiberglass etc... We cater to those of us that have muscle cars and motorcycles. I have done extensive work on chevelles, novas and camaros. From original restoration cars to Big Block full blown cars in which the race cars are basically all fiberglass. " You Want To Bling Give Us A Ring". "CHROMEOZONE" 860.243.2526 or email jemal.wright@sbcglobal.net.

Dye can also be added to change the color of your finish if need be.

XXXChromePlating
May 18th, 05, 9:06 PM
Tom,

Received the bumper today. It looks great.

We took a few pictures so we'll get those up as soon as we can fellas.

X

mc71454
May 18th, 05, 9:30 PM
Excellent...I was crossing my fingers Fedex Ground would come through.

By wrapping it the way I did I kept it under the OS3 (oversize 3) category for shipping which was $78 instead of the $25 it cost me including insurance for $599.


Thanks again

XXXChromePlating
May 19th, 05, 10:52 AM
http://www.xxxplating.com/Images/Tom_Chevelle_5_18_05.gif

Tom,

This is the bumper we received. Good work on the prep. We'll begin work on this one today or tomorrow and post the completed part when it's ready to ship back to you.

Thanks,

X

J70Chev
May 19th, 05, 12:08 PM
MC, what make is that bumper, Glastek? how much did it cost ya.

Olle
May 19th, 05, 12:11 PM
Can't wait to see it... Tom, are you bringing the car to CB05?

mc71454
May 19th, 05, 12:32 PM
MC, what make is that bumper, Glastek? how much did it cost ya.


The Bumper is from US Body Source and I bought it 5 years ago for $129. If you had to pay for the prep (which I will probably do the next time :D) it
would be about $300 my guess. aside from all the sanding and the messed up edges, I had to open up the directional light holes, modify my lenses and lens housing, drill all the bolt holes for the brackets and the license plate. The lights are off about 1" too far in from factory, so the brackets are going to be tough to fit.

My New Glasstek Hood is all ready and painted and going on the car today. What a nice quality piece.

Olle,

I really hope to make CB05 this year...but that is still on the table with the wife as she would have to cancel or change her plans :rolleyes:

mc71454
May 22nd, 05, 8:25 AM
Hi Kevin,

Any updates on the bumper?

Thanks Tom

XXXChromePlating
May 23rd, 05, 2:01 AM
Hi Kevin,

Any updates on the bumper?

Thanks Tom

Tom,

Prep had quite a time getting the bumper foundationed this weekend. The primer you used seems to be a non-flexing primer and caused a bit of a headache for them. What's the name of the stuff you used? It caused a great deal of cracking with the slightest amount of flexing. It's best to use a primer that is flexible such as SEM's Flexible Bumper Sealer/Primer or any primer with a flex additive.

Not to worry, they are taking care of the issue. We've spent triple the time we'd normally spend on a pre-prepped bumper. Understand that we don't want to sacrifice quality for time, and while we are having to put more prep into the bumper than anticipated we'll stick to it and the price will stay the same. We'll have a better idea of delivery tomorrow.

Here's where they were on Saturday.

http://www.xxxplating.com/images/Tom_Chevelle_5_21_05.jpg


Kevin

Chris R
May 23rd, 05, 3:43 AM
Excellent...I was crossing my fingers Fedex Ground would come through.

By wrapping it the way I did I kept it under the OS3 (oversize 3) category for shipping which was $78 instead of the $25 it cost me including insurance for $599.


Thanks again

So you have 600 bucks into this before XXX plates it?

mc71454
May 23rd, 05, 8:26 AM
So you have 600 bucks into this before XXX plates it?


Nope, Not even close..

BUT, If I had to buy another one, and have all the work done including drilling and slotting the mounting holes, fitting the turn lights, sanding and filling and smoothing and have to pay someone to do it..... AND pay for shipping from the manufacturer and to XXX agian, it would likely cost that much or possibly more.

mc71454
May 25th, 05, 10:06 PM
Tom,

Prep had quite a time getting the bumper foundationed this weekend. The primer you used seems to be a non-flexing primer and caused a bit of a headache for them. What's the name of the stuff you used? It caused a great deal of cracking with the slightest amount of flexing. It's best to use a primer that is flexible such as SEM's Flexible Bumper Sealer/Primer or any primer with a flex additive.

Not to worry, they are taking care of the issue. We've spent triple the time we'd normally spend on a pre-prepped bumper. Understand that we don't want to sacrifice quality for time, and while we are having to put more prep into the bumper than anticipated we'll stick to it and the price will stay the same. We'll have a better idea of delivery tomorrow.

Here's where they were on Saturday.

http://www.xxxplating.com/images/Tom_Chevelle_5_21_05.jpg


Kevin

Kevin,

somehow I missed this post :confused: ?? Sorry about not getting back to you sooner. I kept checking back but all I saw was my last post and didn't go back into the thread.

Anyway, I understand about the time and appreciate not sacrificing to save time. The primer I used was from NAPA and was recommended by the body guy ??? I will have to check the can for specifics, but I don't beleive it was for flexible surfaces :( .

No big deal as I will put my factory bumper back on for this weekend...only take a 1/2 hour. Thanks for holding the $$

You can be sure that I will help market your product, there are a lot of fellow racers at my track waiting to see this on my car. Do you have any decals I can put on my car windows ???. I will also put a link to your site and pictures on my website once the bumper is on the car.

Tom

dyno jonn
May 25th, 05, 10:45 PM
I saw this one over Oklahoma way. They do Chrome looking finishes on metal or non metallic parts. Give them a look see.

http://snschrome.com/

XXXChromePlating
May 26th, 05, 11:33 AM
Morning Tom,

The bumper is coming along now. They sanded, reapplied a flexible primer and are now sanding again to make sure all of the cracks are out. If all goes well with the crack elimination, the bumper will look very good and we anticipate shipping it out next week. We'll keep you posted.

We'll be sure to post the finished product before it ships. Thanks for the offer of exposure, we'll be sure to get some decals out to you.

We are also about 80% into the process of building an online chrome shop/store and people will be able to purchase XXX shirts and hats. (shamless plug) http://www.chevelles.com/forums/images/icons/icon12.gif

Again, we'll keep you posted Tom.

X

mc71454
May 26th, 05, 2:41 PM
Thanks !!!

mc71454
May 31st, 05, 11:26 AM
ttt

XXXChromePlating
Jun 1st, 05, 10:40 AM
Tom,

Your bumper is set to ship this Friday. We'll post a picture prior to shipping.

X

mc71454
Jun 1st, 05, 10:49 AM
Thanks Kevin !!!

Myself, and many others look forward to seeing it...

Tom

J70Chev
Jun 1st, 05, 2:02 PM
hey Kevin, is there any way you could "accidentally" ship it to my house :) I'll send my address later.

Byfield
Jun 1st, 05, 2:07 PM
Kevin:

Do you offer dash restoration? On my 68, that would include the chrome and both colors of paint. (black base and green main color)

And can you rechrome pot metal? I have the original dealer plate on my car and would like it restored.

We can deal specifics privately but I think there might be others here interested in if you can restore dashes and a ballpark cost (assuming the dash is solid and just needs coatings)


Thanks, Kurt

XXXChromePlating
Jun 1st, 05, 11:30 PM
hey Kevin, is there any way you could "accidentally" ship it to my house :) I'll send my address later.

Sure, as long as Tom doesn't mind...
I have a feeling he will. :angry:

X

XXXChromePlating
Jun 2nd, 05, 10:30 AM
Kevin:

Do you offer dash restoration? On my 68, that would include the chrome and both colors of paint. (black base and green main color)

And can you rechrome pot metal? I have the original dealer plate on my car and would like it restored.

We can deal specifics privately but I think there might be others here interested in if you can restore dashes and a ballpark cost (assuming the dash is solid and just needs coatings)


Thanks, Kurt

Kurt,

We do some dash restoration depending on the style of the dash. Typically, we chrome as well as reapply the flat black paint or the customer can reapply the flat black paint to the appropriate areas. The XXX Chrome Plating process can be painted over.

We can also handle pot metal. Pricing is dependant on the condition of the part when it arrives. If you handle the prep on it the cost associated will be less of course. We prefer pre-prepped parts to be 1000 grit wet-sanded upon receipt.

Email us with any specifics or pictures at info@xxxplating.com

X

mc71454
Jun 2nd, 05, 10:56 AM
Sure, as long as Tom doesn't mind...
I have a feeling he will. :angry:

X

I have to agree with Kevin here...LOL...

XXXChromePlating
Jun 2nd, 05, 11:40 AM
Fellas,

Here are a few bumpers that were completed this week:

http://www.xxxplating.com/Images/Bumpers2.jpg


http://www.xxxplating.com/Images/Bumpers.jpg


While chroming is our true focus, we also provide some pretty good design services as well. Here's a project our designer "Animator" completed yesterday on a Yamaha R1 front tank section:


http://www.xxxplating.com/Images/cobra.jpg
X

XXXChromePlating
Jun 3rd, 05, 1:48 PM
Tom,

Your bumper is complete and will ship later today. You will receive an invoice via email. What email address do you prefer?

http://www.xxxplating.com/images/Tom_Chevelle_6_3_05.jpg

Thanks for your business. We'll be sure to get some decals out in the shipment.

X

Olle
Jun 3rd, 05, 2:35 PM
Well, I'll be damned... :hurray:

Slowpoke70
Jun 3rd, 05, 2:46 PM
Tom, care to let us know a "ball park" figure cost for bumper+service costs?

That looks better than my chrome steel bumper (hehehe, never been rechromed).

mc71454
Jun 3rd, 05, 2:47 PM
Tom,

Your bumper is complete and will ship later today. You will receive an invoice via email. What email address do you prefer?

http://www.xxxplating.com/images/Tom_Chevelle_6_3_05.jpg

Thanks for your business. We'll be sure to get some decals out in the shipment.

X

Man, I have Goosebumps....Looks Real Good !!!!

mc71454@hotmail.com is good for Email..

Thanks, I look forward to getting it on there..

Tom

mc71454
Jun 3rd, 05, 3:18 PM
Tom, care to let us know a "ball park" figure cost for bumper+service costs?

That looks better than my chrome steel bumper (hehehe, never been rechromed).


I will be able to give a range, that will depend on What XXX wants me to divulge. The prep work really stinks in that if you really want to make it look original you need to do some serious work on the fiberglass. Unfortunately There are limited sources for Monte Carlo parts especially in Fiberglass when compared to a chevelle. My bumper in raw form was $160 delivered. I had to hog out the turn signal lights and fabricate a way to mount them since the material provided in the opening is no where near enough to use the stock mounting setup. the sanding and fixing the scratches and dings and the excess flashing and boogers is a real PIA. I have really come to appreciate the prep work that body people do when they do it right.

would I do it again...yes I would. I will likely do the rear bumper next..

I screwed up and did not use a flexible primer, being that the primer is so thin I didn't think it would matter and I didn't even think to ask the question. that's just lack of experience. My Monte is getting totally redone this winter with new paint and GM chrome and I probably won't be doing much of that.

XXXChromePlating
Jun 3rd, 05, 8:06 PM
Tom,

Glad you're happy with our work. We look forward to providing you with more services in the near future. Feel free to divulge whatever you'd like. We're fair and honest people.

X

mc71454
Jun 3rd, 05, 9:21 PM
Tom,

Glad you're happy with our work. We look forward to providing you with more services in the near future. Feel free to divulge whatever you'd like. We're fair and honest people.

X

Thanks Kevin,

I can really appreciate the awesome service and communication and also working within the $ range you quoted me even though you had to deal with the non-flexible primer.

I will add that XXX did NOT charge me extra for the extra work they had to do in removing that primer...

I will post a total cost summary in a day or two. Nice to have a 23 pound estimated weight loss in the absolute most effective location. My original bumper has had a dent in it since day one when I bought the car in '97. So I needed a bumper anyway and if it looks as good in person as the picture does, it is well worth it....and then some.

Right now with my unexpected timing gear failure (discussed in the performance section) I have to get the car back running before I do anything else.

when the bumper arrives, I have been ordered by my buddies who own a restoration/speed shop to bring the bumper up to them for inspection within 24 hours of it's arrival...

SNSChrome
Jun 5th, 05, 8:31 AM
I saw this one over Oklahoma way. They do Chrome looking finishes on metal or non metallic parts. Give them a look see.

http://snschrome.com/

Thanks for the plug, dyno jonn. I specialize in chromed bumpers and I typically keep about 60 of Glasstek's in stock (not chromed yet, though). I just got an order from a Chevelles.com board member and he's the one that informed me of this thread. He just ordered it this past Friday and he'll have it in his hands in less than two weeks.

The only reason is that I would like to show it off at the The Hemmings Motor News Muscelpalooza Event at Lebanon Valley Dragway on May 27 and May 28.

I was there!!! You may have seen me racing a red '69 Six Pack 4-speed Superbee in the F.A.S.T. shootout! (with steel bumpers!) I had a great time, there was a great turnout with quite a few extremely rare cars!

Hey, SSx3, I'm just up the road from you (Owasso).

Thanks again guys,

Wayne @ SNSchrome

XXXChromePlating
Jun 24th, 05, 10:33 AM
X

Olle
Jun 24th, 05, 10:53 AM
X

Yes, it's time for an update. Is the bumper on the car yet, and how does it look?

XXXChromePlating
Jun 24th, 05, 11:29 AM
DON'T TRY THIS AT HOME. Got this bumper in a few weeks ago. You could scrap the paint off with your nails. If you want chrome, no matter who you choose to do business with, don't settle for "chrome paint". Also, don't do it yourself.

http://www.xxxplating.com/images/ChromePaintvsChemicalMetali.jpg

Olle
Jul 6th, 05, 10:30 AM
Still no updates from Tom... would really like to know how this worked out.

mc71454
Jul 6th, 09, 5:50 PM
worked out Great..

Bumper still looks awesome, fools everybody even when they are standing right next to it.

Chris R
Jul 6th, 09, 10:18 PM
An update almost 3 years to the day. Better late then never but glad to hear it still looks good several years later.