Nickel plated wrenches?

[F124C]

I have some very old wrenches (possibly 1920's) which I think are nickel plated. Can they be replated in nickel or would I be better off with chrome? I've heard that nickel plating is never as durable and can change to a yellowish color if in contact with oil (afair).

Al.

 

[bonneyman]

This place does a electroless nickel coating that is supposed to be outstanding. They do other coatings as well. Mainly for firearms, but, they can do most any metal part. Not cheap.

https://robarguns.com/custom-firearm-finishes/

 

[MShaw]

Most decorative chrome as used on wrenches is actually three layers. First is a copper or nickel "strike" which is a thin preparatory coat to assure adhesion. Next is nickel with leveling salts to fill minute imperfections like polishing scratches and finally the chrome.

At least this was the process used at New Britain Hand Tools when I worked there in the early 1970s

The final test is to stand the wrench on edge on a newspaper. If the job is well done you should be able to clearly read 4 lines of the newsprint reflected in the wrench surface.

 

[F124C]

^^^ Very interesting!
Thanks for the info, always nice to hear how things are/were done and tested.

Al.

 

[nickelTwin]

I worked part time while going to college at a plating company. I remember those steps above and some times 2 or 3 passes through the chome bath. I seem to remember some buffing somewhere along the line. Maybe after the nickel bath.

 

[nickelmore]

Years ago I had some parts refinished here.

Lots of places in Chicago land could not keep up with EPA and local government regulations and chose to close.

Good luck