Parts Restoration And Upkeep

[wb2002]

Hello everyone. I have Tamiya Globe Liner, King Hauler, Shell Tanker, Cargo Semi-Trailer and Flatbed. I use electrical board in Globe Liner and MFU in King Hauler. It's been awhile since I have toyed with them but lately starting to play with them more. I bought 2 Integy 55T motors and 2 4 to 1 reduction gear to use on the trucks to make speed more realistic. I modified the Globe Liner first. I had to move the steering and X'mission servos to make room for the longer motor/reduction gear combo. I successfully did this however, I think overall speed is a little too slow. I think I will try just with the motor on the King Hauler first.

Now to the point of my question. Cleaning and dusting off my trucks, I noticed that the plastic simulated chrome/aluminum parts like fuel tanks, bumpers, visors, and mirrors are now spotted and getting dull. What can be used to bring gloss and shine back to them or do I have to replace them?

Thanks

wb2002

[TamiyaDan]

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[SWAGGER]

Hate to disagree, sorry, but there is a fix. Google Alclad and check it out on youtube. It's a spray, mostly for airbrush application. It's actually real chrome particles in a laquer spray format. It's pretty toxic in so far as metal particles in the fumes, so you need to wear a mask when spraying. You put down a gloss black base and spray ALCLAD very, very finely over it and you get actual, real chrome that really blings and shines. It can still be a little delicate though so best to give it a good clear on top. Most clears out there may tarnish the chrome shine though, so use Alclads own special clear which will maintain and protect the chrome.

Check it out!

[TamiyaDan]

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[Fixit]

How about strip the chrome with some model strip and then paint using Humbrol Metalcote Aerosol, the polished steel finish gives a very nice scale finish, not chrome but then I have never been a fan of chromed plastic parts, though Tamiya seem to do a better job with it than most.

Metalcote is a great product, comes in tinlets and aerosol, the polished aluminium is not so good but the polished steel is great. Spray on, allow to dry and then buff with a soft cloth..... job done. Grab a tin and try it on something first.