anybody got any method for removing chrome plating, that I can do at home? As i want to re-plate a number of items with zinc plate - any hits or tips for home plating?
The method your chrome plater will use is reverse elctroplating, You can do this at home but you are probably going to spend more money on equipment than paying a shop to do it.
If the part is steel you can use diluted hydrochloric acid (swimming pool acid) to remove the chrome but if there is nickel or copper under the chrome, you have another problem. The nickel can be difficult to remove with acid without destroying the base metal but it can work. The copper can be removed with ferric chloride (sold at electronic shops for making PC boards) which won't attack the steel. You will notice on a bike that has leaked battery acid on the silencers, it will etch the chrome.
If the part is aluminum, don't use any acid or the part will be dissolved and then no more part is left.
My recommendation, take the part to a chrome plater and have them remove the chrome. I did once remove the chrome from a Lucas headlight that needed to be welded but it was not a fun job!
