Why does some chrome rust?

f_inscreenname

Commander
Joined
Aug 23, 2001
Messages
2,591
It doesn't matter what type of valve cover (chrome) I use they all seem to rust after one season. All the rest chrome on the boat doesn't have a spot of rust after many years. Is it the base metal? Cheep chrome? Is there any thing I can do to prevent this. Already tried clear coating with no luck.
 

exodus8

Seaman
Joined
Apr 6, 2003
Messages
69
Re: Why does some chrome rust?

i dont know if this will help, but sacrificial anodes might, i dont really know the science behind it so u might want to look it up on the net, but basically u "sacrifice" a weaker metal thats easy to replace on the motor an all the rust attacks that weaker metal first, u should be able to look up more info on the internet
 

Major Woods

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jun 7, 2001
Messages
317
Re: Why does some chrome rust?

The chrome does not rust, it's the cheap base material under the chrome that migrates thru to the surface.<br />Some chromes are plated on to thin and will stress crack on a micro level allowing salt/moisture to attack base material. When this happens it appears that the chrome itself is rusting.<br />Expensive valve covers are tripple plated to withstand harsh enviroments.
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,285
Re: Why does some chrome rust?

Polished Aluminum.........
 
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