See How One of Our Wheels is Processed from

TECH
TECH
Classic Components
Chrome Plating Factory Wheels
Story by Curt Lout – Photos Courtesy of Classic Components
All chrome platers are not the same! Since 1986, Classic Components, Inc.—aka South Bay Chrome—has offered
a full custom and OEM chrome plating service. In addition to chrome-plating wheels, they also specialize in small
components, swingarms and frames, and they do traditional electroplating and chrome coating on plastic and
magnesium parts. For fast service and a superior, show-quality finish, go with Classic Components. Watch as
Ronaldo, an employee at Classic Components, walks us through the process.
Chrome Plating Factory Wheels
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Here is one of our original factory wheels. This cast
aluminum wheel is about to get some shine, courtesy of
Classic Components.
Before the plating process begins, each wheel is stripped
of its paint with a proprietary stripping agent.
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The wheel is dipped in the paint stripper for 15 to 30
minutes to thoroughly remove the factory finish.
Next, each wheel is wire-brushed clean and rinsed. This
helps prepare the surface for a quality finish.
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Chrome Plating Factory Wheels
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Now Ronaldo removes the nubs in preparation for the
plating process.
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The final shiny appearance depends a good deal on a
clean foundation; otherwise the nickel won’t stick.
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Ronaldo strikes an initial layer of nickel before copper.
Next, the wheels are electroplated with copper and
polished again. The copper acts as a filler to smooth out
imperfections before nickel & chrome plating.
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The nickel gives the wheel its deep shimmer; it also provides an additional layer of protection for a long-lasting shine.
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Chrome Plating Factory Wheels
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Turning the wheels every 15 to 20 minutes ensures a
clean, smooth surface and consistant coverage.
Ronaldo attaches the anode to the wheel before chroming.
The anode electrically charges the wheel to attract the
chromium to the wheel surface.
Chrome Plating Factory Wheels
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Chrome Plating Factory Wheels
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Now he applies current to the anode before dipping the
wheel in chromium.
The parts are electroplated in chromium before rinsing.
Chrome is actually gold-colored—who knew?
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Fits 1999-’07 FI bikes
Fits 1999-’06 carbureted bikes
No case boring required
Bore 37⁄8”, stroke 4½”
Over 110 ft-lbs of torque to the rear wheel
S&S Gear Drive Cams, electric compression releases
PN 106-0193 MSRP $3,995.00
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Chrome Plating Factory Wheels
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After rinsing, the wheel begins to show its final shine and
color. Chrome is actually just a protective coating over
the nickel to prevent it from tarnishing.
It’s safe to clean the wheel with water before the final
coat of wax is applied. Then the wheels are ready to be
shipped back to the customer.
Chrome Plating Factory Wheels
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Chrome Plating Factory Wheels
Above is our orginal wheel with the
factory black and natural finish.
Thanks to lassic Compnents, we have
a whole new look for our wheels.
CLASSIC COMPONENTS INC.
Chrome Plating
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Chrome Plating Factory Wheels
888.327.4189
www.chromeplating.com