Reproduction aluminum Trim, Anodized ??

[hooverfish]

I was told yesterday that reproduction aluminum trim was not anodized and would not last near as long as OEM trim before getting dull and cloudy.

Is this true or just rumor ??

I'd like to know, if anyone can say for sure, one way or the other.

[vics stuff]

hooverfish . Yes the aftermarket trim will turn cloudy over a short time. They are not anodized like OEM. I wish the manufacturer of these trim parts would go through this xtra process before painting the black. Then they would have a killer product on their hands. I think the anodizing process would increase the retail price substantially. Have a plating shop in Oregon who does killer anodizing on repaired pieces.I do have a couple of friends who used this aftermarket trim and both experienced the same cloudy issues. The repop trim is shineier that NOS. if you look closely at the NOS stuff you can actually see a light grain testure to the trim.
Vic

[vics stuff]

I also would like to here from other builders on this topic.
Vic

[67c10rustbuket]

I hear there are two manufacturers of trim: mar-k and counterpart. I read many complaints about off shore counterpart brand trim and nothing but good stuff about USA made mar-k products. I would ask your friends what brand trim and where did they buy it.

From Mar-k website:
103136
Mouldings-Body Mouldings
Complete Body Set with Clips

Set consists of 12 aluminum mouldings extending from the front bumper to the tailgate, which accent the lower body lines on the side of the truck. Mouldings are bright-anodized aluminum with a black painted accent stripe. Clips and hardware for attachment to the body are included. Made in Oklahoma City, USA.

[CarterD2015]

I do not have mar k on my truck. I bought the dreaded lmc moulding before I knew any better. I did see a truck with mar k at a car show recently and it looked amazing. It was so much better that I am changing mine to mar k. This stuff is a little more expensive but worth every penny.

[1971 K10 shortbox]

I have Mar-k, excellent quality. I think I paid about $1200 for upper, lower and a tailgate band. Bought through Brothers, during one of those 20% off sales.

[leddzepp]

I used Counterpart. Zero complaints, fits perfect, looks excellent, can't tell any difference between it and OEM or NOS. Been on for several years now and have not had to polish it yet, but truck is parked in a garage regularly.

[vics stuff]

I was only aware of the LMC trim , which is not the best in my books. Are they the guys making the rear tailgate panel. I have seen these and seem to be a good quality piece real close to NOS.
I am going to investigate these.
Thanks for the clarification
Vic

[71HUGGER396]

I have a 1970 Blazer with a 68 clip. Bought there blazer kit for the side trim from mar-K. 300% better then even NOS stuff. Only problem is it made the counterpart stuff on the front and back of blazer look even worse.haha

[vics stuff]

Just did some research on the Mar-k body trim and they are anodized and for $550.00 That would be a great buy.
I am going to look into buying from these guys seriously. I also have a 55 second series truck that I am working on. Looks like these guys are it for me .
Thank you 67c10rustbuckt for the lead.
Vic

[turp mcspray]

I have had Counter Part, Mar-K, and NOS, in my hand at the same time, for comparing. (69-72 upper and lower) As mentioned earlier, aftermarket is smoother and has more shine. The Mar-k is a little nicer than the Counter Part. If money is tight, don't be afraid of the Counter Part. You wouldn't know the difference, unless you had them side by side. As far as looks go, NOS was the worst. Lots of stamping and tooling marks, and considerably less shine. And bad paint detail.