Replating question

[1967 R502]

Does anyone know what drill press columns are plated with?:

1. Hard Chrome
2. Show Chrome
3. Bright Zinc
4. Nickel


Please let me know. I am restoring an old drill and keeping the post as bare metal seems odd.

 

[bmw57isetta]

Never seen a drill press column that was plated. They've all been de-rusted and wiped down with any number of things to keep it from rusting. Johnson's Paste Wax, Gibbs Penetrant, Boeshield, Kroil, W-D 40, boiled linseed oil, you name it. I used Gibbs on three drill presses I restored and they looked great 5-7 years later.

One thing to watch out for with plating is it will add thickness to the column and the head casting, table and base may not fit any more. Plus, it ain't cheap.

 

[senlow]

The column should not be plated. There are numerous products that can be wiped on to inhibit rust. I prefer a good wax because it also lubricates and does not attract dust.