Restoration Options for a Chrome Bumper

[jb3t]

I have the original chrome bumpers on my 1978 C10. Overall, they are in good shape with no dents or scratches. However, the rear step bumper has some rust.

Have any of you restored a chrome bumper to its near original condition? Either using chrome paint (like wheel paint), powder coating, or some other means. I would like to keep the truck original and keep the bumpers chrome. Just wondering if there's a way to restore the original (at a reasonable cost) or should I just buy new.

Thanks

[gmachinz]

Only way is to take it to any chrome shop to have it stripped and re-chromed. IMO, buying a NOS bumper is not worth the money when a show chrome bumper is actually cheaper and the chrome finish is twice as nice. I'd say $400-450 is the range for a show finish chromed bumper....at least around here. There are two chrome plating places near me so its not a huge deal. One is a custom chrome shop and the other is a bumper repair/replace shop.

[Bigstevex4]

Goverment EPA regs have realy put alot chrome shops out buisness realy driving up prices.

[jb3t]

I am going to call my body guy about chrome plating and will see what he says. If it's outrageous, I my try a little DIY job with chrome paint and see how it comes out. Worst case I either have it chromed or buy one from LMC. Maybe I'll hit a junk yard or two.

Curious if anyone out there has done a DIY restoration and, if so, how it's turned out.

[notallthere]

The only thing that I have done is clean it with 000 steel wool and then clear coated it. It is okay but not anything to show. I have heard of chrome powder coating that is good and durable but I have not seen any results.

[83swb]

I see your in Boston, there was a guy in mass who parted his truck out on Craigslist and had a real nice front bumper for $125, I'd look for it.

[jb3t]

Thanks everyone. Gonna look at the Craigslist add. Just looked at the rear bumper (step) and it does not Evelyn look chrome. It looks silver.

More research coming but we are in the middle polar vortex here. Don't even want to walk outside.

[andrewmp6]

Chrome powder coat is close but being its a bumper it might not be much cheaper then having it re chromed.