Re Chrome or buy new

[Eastermaid]

Having just Coelaned the toe rail on my boat the fairleads now look a bit werse for wear (originaly chromed bronze) does any one know a plating company solent area or have experiance of having stuff rechromed do you have to get them sand plasted etc and cost. The fairleads are large 8"front 6"rear so replacing in stainless could be expensive.

 

[Peterduck]

I presume that you mean that the old chrome plating is the worse for wear. Chroming a fairlead, which will get lots of abrasion form salt-encrusted ropes is complete idiocy. A plating works can remove the remaing Chrome plating and buff the fairleads to a high polish for you. Yes, the bronze will eventually go dull, and then green with verdigris. Don't fret over it. Save your polishing for down below, or at home.
Peter.

 

[moodycruiser]

Try these people. I had a ceremonial sword sheath done many years ago and they did a very good job. Benn going years now so they must be getting something right /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[oldfrank]

Polished stainless is a good option for fairleads. Old Frank

 

[flyingskipper]

I have had numerous items re-chromed such as winches and fairleads and have lasted for over 15 years, it is important to tell them they are to be used at sea. They apply the plating much thicker than usual. You may have to pay more but its worth it. I bet its still cheaper than trying to buy new ones.