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Electrolysis rust removal and chrome
r1_pete - 14/11/15 at 07:08 PM

I have a motorcycle rim on which the visible chrome is perfect, huwever the back where the tyre fits is rusty.

I was thinking of electrolysis using a curved bar following the cyrve of the rim, going around the rim in segments.

Question is, will it effect the chrome? I understant electrolysis effectively works 'line of sight' but just wondered if there was a chance of wrecking the chrome which would be on the opposite side of the rim to the metral bar....

Cheers.

Pete.

mini-sprite - 14/11/15 at 07:24 PM

I've cleaned loads of rusty parts through electrolysis but haven't put anything with chrome in the tank. I would of thought if there was a chance of the electrolyte getting under the chrome and finding some rust then it would remove/change the rust and risk bubbling it.

Paul

MikeR - 14/11/15 at 08:27 PM

Doesn't the solution have a nasty reaction with stainless producing something poisonous? If I'm right I'd be careful about chrome in case their is a similar outcome. Have you tried searching the internet, someone has bound to have done it.

r1_pete - 14/11/15 at 09:55 PM

Cheers guys, i did google it and found nothing.

I guess a mechanical removal will be safest....

Barlidge - 14/11/15 at 11:22 PM

quote:
Originally posted by MikeR
Doesn't the solution have a nasty reaction with stainless producing something poisonous? If I'm right I'd be careful about chrome in case their is a similar outcome. Have you tried searching the internet, someone has bound to have done it.


As above, although from memory I believe its when stainless/chrome is used as the anode.

coozer - 15/11/15 at 12:25 AM

I've done a good few brake calipers and no effect on the chrome plated pistons.

Electrolysis only attacks ferrous oxide. If there's any rust under the chrome it will lift it off but that helps identity the problem.