Topic: Zinc plating at home

[bert96]

I would like to start zinc plating,because i'm rebuilding my s65 and soon my cb77 so i figure it would be less expensive to do it myself.So,anyone is doing it already and would like to share tricks and tips?

I read a little bit on that subject,some will say to buy a Caswell kit, some say to not buy it and take home products instead...so
what is your thought!!

Bert

[BomberMann650]

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[vfourfreak]

I've tried nickel plating with great success. The most rewarding thing I've tried in my shop.

I bought a starter kit from http://gaterosplating.co.uk/ and subsequently for about €100 bought : https://www.reichelt.com/fr/fr/?ARTICLE=135689&PROVID=2788&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsseoq5-o1gIVF4uyCh0jwQ3_EAQYASABEgIG1vD_BwE

One can however do this on an even more limited budget. I've not done zinc yet, but will shortly.

Kev

[bert96]

Wow,nothing more cheaper


Bert

[vfourfreak]

The lab power supply was a bit of overkill on my part. The key requirement is control of current to regulate the plating process. That can equally be achieved by very inexpensive components available through EBay or AliBaba.

The chemicals to produce the electrolyte, and plates are all easily available on line. I used the pails that came with the products for my pool for a large number of items like nuts bolts or screws up to about 40cm long. For longer items I used plastic window plant boxes. I have a load of photos somewhere of a resto I did, with lots of plating,  on my beloved TZ250 Yamaha that I will endeavour to dig out if you are interested.

Kev

[bert96]

I saw someone who used a battery charger,but I don't know more.

[bert96]

Whats the best nickel or zinc plated?

[vfourfreak]

I saw someone who used a battery charger,but I don't know more.

Completey possible, even a car battery, but a rheostat to control current and ammeter are essential, and very likely 12v is not always desireable, normally its more like 4 -6 v see : http://www.alfabb.com/bb/forums/car-restoration/188194-zinc-electroplating-guide.html

If you want to get into this, and I think its rather addictive, I suggest the Lab power supply is a very worthwhile investment.

Kev

[bert96]

I found this power supply,what do you think?


http://www.robotshop.com/en/0-15a-5-15v-adjustable-dc-power-supply-us-plug.html

Bert

[chewbacca5000]

I would like to start zinc plating,because i'm rebuilding my s65 and soon my cb77 so i figure it would be less expensive to do it myself.So,anyone is doing it already and would like to share tricks and tips?

I read a little bit on that subject,some will say to buy a Caswell kit, some say to not buy it and take home products instead...so
what is your thought!!

Bert

I got a nice DC power supply I used to do some zinc platting with.  I send my stuff out now so much easier, but if you want it I would be happy to send it to you for $10 plus shipping.