[markeb01]

From what I’ve read the new repop bumpers look pretty nice, but they’re no match for an original replated with true triple chrome plating (copper, nickel, chrome). The new bumpers are “triple nickel plated”, meaning there isn’t any copper underneath which provides the intense reflection of show chrome.

But whether it’s worth another $500 (per bumper) for real chrome on an original part versus the import stuff is a good question I don’t know the answer to myself. At one point I thought about having a spare mint condition GMC grille plated and matching it up with repop bumpers and guards. Problem being I’m afraid the color or shine will be way off.

Also, I understand the repop bumper guards only fit on reproduction bumpers, so your NOS original guards may not fit a replacement bumper. And unless they are incredibly mint, they may not look very good on a freshly chromed bumper either, as most NOS parts aren't all that perfect.

I can attest that reproduction bumpers are much thinner than originals. I dimpled my aftermarket rear bumper just tightening it up the first time, something I’ve generally found impossible to do on an original. If the truck is going to be a driver, the money spent to have show-chrome put on an original part may be better spent on other accessories.