I was wondering how to fix some pits in a bumper before sending it out for re-chroming. Whats the proper materials to use? Can lead be chromed?

Lee

Yes. You can chrome lead.

You might want to check into a few of the parts companies. Many offer exchanges. When I was building my 70 Camaro I was able to exchange the front and rear bumper (cores) and get new re-chromed bumoers for cheaper than it was to have mine chromed. Here in California chrome is expensive. I think the new bumbers were $125 each. These were not repop junk they were re-chromed bumpers. A Friend of mine just did the same thing on his 71 Nova. Just something to think about.

You might want to check into a few of the parts companies. Many offer exchanges. When I was building my 70 Camaro I was able to exchange the front and rear bumper (cores) and get new re-chromed bumoers for cheaper than it was to have mine chromed. Here in California chrome is expensive. I think the new bumbers were $125 each. These were not repop junk they were re-chromed bumpers. A Friend of mine just did the same thing on his 71 Nova. Just something to think about.

Thanks everyone.

The car is a 71 firebird and there is no aftermarket rear bumpers that I can find.

Is using lead the proper way to repair it then? I really cant think of any other way.

Lee

Lee,
I am not talking "aftermarket" I am talking true GM metal. Maybe you have already exhausted all avenues. NPD is one place that comes to mind. (National Parts Depot).

I would call your local chrome shop and see what they suggest. Any decent shop will take car of the pits as well. Often times they will do it with copper which is one of the layers used when doing chrome.

I've checked everywhere for new, no go.

I wanted to do the work myself for a few reasons: I like working with all aspects of a car, reduce the charges of someone elses labor and to gain knowledge and skills.

Besides, I find most shops just blow smoke and do less then quality repairs.

Lee

I had to rechome my front bumper a few yrs ago....
Most of the cost of rechroming is in the polish and prep of the bumper....
I basically filled shaped in the same manner as blocking a panel with bog, except I used the mig welder....then sent off, they did the final finishing and chroming, nearly 1/2ed the cost.

I would check with the rechroming company first. Last time I checked, small repairs were included in the base rechrome price, so you might not have to mess with any fixing on your own. Charlie

Lee, I hear you, I do all my own work for the same reasos you mentioned. Some shops might cut you a break for doing the prep work, while other shops are going to charge you the same euither way. If you are dead set of fixing it yourself I would suggest welding up all the pits and imperfections. Once that's done go at it with a file.