In a message dated 1/23/2005 3:02:58 PM Eastern Standard Time,
classicrendezvous-request@bikelist.org writes:
<< Not necessarily.
My understanding is that they first have to strip the old chrome and then
start all the prep work. That is an extra step which = $.
>>
It's not a big deal-they just put it into a bath and then polish as usual. Phil Brown Sun just coming out in San Rafael, Calif
According to previous posts here or on the Framebuilder's list (in the archives somewhere, but writing this note is faster than tracking the original messages down), chrome removal is done just like plating but the electric current is reversed, so it in effect "deplates" the item. However, the process works faster on brass than it does on chrome so you have to monitor things very closely... once the brazed joints are uncovered, they will get sucked dry quickly.
Disclaimer: The above is not from personal experience, just hearsay.
Bob Hovey
Columbus, GA