Based on checking the website, Advancedcustomchrome.com appears to be a specialized service focusing on chrome plating and restoration for antique automotive and motorcycle parts.
They highlight their commitment to quality, fair pricing, and a global reputation, suggesting a niche but dedicated service in the custom vehicle restoration market.
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Advancedcustomchrome.com Review & First Look
Advancedcustomchrome.com presents itself as a leader in the chrome plating industry, specifically catering to vintage automotive and motorcycle enthusiasts. The website emphasizes their world-renowned quality and the ability to recondition various metal parts—from pot metal to stainless steel—to either a stock or mirror-like show finish. What immediately stands out is their specialization in antique parts, which is a critical detail for anyone seeking to restore classic vehicles. They explicitly state their limitations, noting they cannot assist with automotive rims or plastic, which sets clear expectations from the outset. This directness is often appreciated by potential customers looking for very specific services.
Their homepage highlights several key aspects:
- Specialization: Antique automotive & motorcycle parts.
- Materials Handled: Pot metal, steel, aluminum, stainless steel.
- Service Scope: Re-chroming existing parts, first-time chroming, and repair of broken or damaged parts.
- Facility: All work, including full-length bumpers, is done in-house.
- Objective: To deliver the best quality chrome at a fair price.
This initial impression suggests a company that understands its niche and aims to provide high-quality craftsmanship.
For those deeply invested in vehicle restoration, a specialist like Advanced Custom Chrome could be a valuable partner.
Advancedcustomchrome.com Pros & Cons
When evaluating Advancedcustomchrome.com, several advantages and limitations become apparent from their online presence. Sysotel.ai Reviews
Pros of Advancedcustomchrome.com
- Highly Specialized Service: Their explicit focus on antique automotive and motorcycle parts means they likely possess the deep expertise and specialized equipment required for these intricate items. This is a significant advantage over general chroming shops.
- Global Recognition: The website proudly states they are “now recognized world-wide,” receiving requests from as far away as England. This suggests a strong reputation built on quality, which can be a powerful indicator of reliability.
- In-House Operations: The fact that “all of the work is done at our facility” implies better quality control and potentially faster turnaround times compared to companies that outsource parts of their process. This also reduces the risk of miscommunication or damage during transit between multiple vendors.
- Ability to Repair Damaged Parts: Their service often includes repairing broken or damaged parts before chroming. This is a crucial benefit for restorers dealing with rare or irreplaceable antique components, saving them the immense effort of sourcing new, original parts.
- Wide Material Handling: They work with a variety of metals, including pot metal, steel, aluminum, and stainless steel, providing versatility for different restoration projects. Pot metal, in particular, is notoriously challenging to chrome properly, so their ability to handle it speaks to their expertise.
Cons of Advancedcustomchrome.com
- Limited Scope: While specialization is a strength, it also means they cannot serve all chroming needs. Their explicit inability to work on automotive rims or plastic parts narrows their potential customer base.
- Website Information Scarcity: The website provides a good overview, but lacks detailed information on the chroming process, specific timelines, or customer testimonials with photos. More transparency could further build trust. For example, while they mention “fair price,” there’s no general pricing guide or quote request form directly on the site.
- Lack of Visual Portfolio: While they state their “quality speaks for itself,” a strong visual portfolio of before-and-after photos of various projects especially challenging ones like pot metal or repaired parts would significantly enhance their credibility and showcase their craftsmanship to a broader audience.
Advancedcustomchrome.com Alternatives
For those seeking chrome plating or restoration services, especially if Advanced Custom Chrome doesn’t fit the specific need e.g., modern rims, plastic, or a different type of metal finishing, several alternatives exist.
These often vary in their specialization, location, and service offerings.
General Chrome Plating Services
Many companies offer broad chrome plating services for various industries, from automotive to consumer goods.
- High-Volume Industrial Platers: These are typically large-scale operations focused on efficiency and cost for mass-produced parts.
- Local Plating Shops: Smaller, regional businesses that may cater to a mix of industrial and individual customer needs. Their expertise can vary widely.
Specialized Restoration Shops
Beyond chrome, many shops focus on complete automotive or motorcycle restoration, often outsourcing specialized services like chroming to experts.
- Full-Service Auto Restoration: Companies that handle all aspects of classic car restoration, including bodywork, paint, engine, and interior, coordinating with external vendors for specific finishes.
- Motorcycle Restoration Specialists: Similar to auto restorers, but focused on two-wheeled vehicles, often with deep knowledge of specific marques or eras.
Other Metal Finishing Services
If chrome isn’t the only option or if a different aesthetic is desired, consider other metal finishing techniques. Sndaccountants.co.uk Reviews
- Powder Coating: A durable and color-rich finish applied as a dry powder and baked on. Excellent for protection and aesthetics.
- Anodizing: Primarily for aluminum, creating a durable, corrosion-resistant, and often colored oxide layer.
- Polishing & Buffing: For achieving a high luster on metals without applying a new coating, often done in-house by restorers.
- Nickel Plating: Can provide a bright, corrosion-resistant finish that is an alternative to chrome, often used for a more vintage look or as a base layer.
DIY Solutions with caution
For very small parts or those with minimal damage, some enthusiasts explore DIY chrome plating kits.
- Home Electroplating Kits: These typically involve a power supply, chemicals, and anodes. Caution: This route requires significant safety precautions, understanding of chemistry, and is generally not recommended for critical or large parts, nor for achieving professional-grade, long-lasting results. The quality rarely matches professional work, and improper disposal of chemicals can be an environmental hazard. It’s almost always better to entrust such specialized work to professionals to avoid potential damage to valuable antique parts and to ensure a safe, high-quality outcome.
When seeking an alternative, always prioritize clear communication, review their portfolio, and inquire about their process, turnaround times, and warranty.
How to Get a Quote from Advancedcustomchrome.com
Based on the information available on their website, the primary and most direct method to inquire about their services and obtain a quote is via telephone.
The Direct Approach: Phone Call
The most prominent contact detail on the Advanced Custom Chrome website is their telephone number: 814 899-1233.
To ensure you get an accurate quote and efficient service when calling, prepare the following information: Henkterhorst.dk Reviews
- Type of Parts: Clearly describe what you need chromed e.g., “1957 Chevy bumper,” “Harley Davidson fender trim,” “Packard hood ornament”.
- Material: If you know the metal type, mention it e.g., “pot metal,” “steel,” “aluminum”.
- Condition of the Parts: Be honest about the current state.
- “As Is”: Is it still on the vehicle? Is it dirty?
- Damage: Are there dents, rust, pitting, or broken sections? They mention they can repair in most cases.
- Existing Finish: Is it already chromed, or is this a first-time chrome?
- Desired Finish: Specify whether you want a “stock finish” or a “mirror-like show appearance.”
- Photos if requested: While you can’t upload them on their site, it’s always helpful to have high-resolution photos ready to send via email if they provide one during the call. Visuals can significantly help them assess the work required.
What to Expect During the Call
- Discussion of Your Needs: The staff will likely ask detailed questions about your parts to understand the scope of work.
- Assessment of Repair Needs: If your parts are damaged, they will discuss the feasibility and cost of repairs.
- Estimated Timeline: Inquire about their current lead times, as specialized services often have a backlog.
- Pricing: They should be able to provide a preliminary estimate or explain their pricing structure based on the complexity and size of the parts.
It’s advisable to call during regular business hours which are not explicitly listed on their site, but generally apply to such businesses. Be prepared to take notes on pricing, timelines, and any shipping instructions they provide.
Advancedcustomchrome.com Pricing
While Advancedcustomchrome.com highlights “a fair price!” on their homepage, specific pricing details are not listed on their website. This is a common practice for highly specialized services like custom chrome plating, as the cost can vary dramatically based on numerous factors.
Here’s why direct pricing isn’t available and what influences the cost:
Factors Influencing Chrome Plating Costs
- Type of Metal:
- Pot Metal: Often the most expensive to re-chrome due to its porosity and fragility. It requires significant pre-treatment, extensive polishing, and careful handling to achieve a quality finish. This can include copper plating, sanding, re-polishing, and then nickel and chrome layers.
- Steel: Generally less labor-intensive than pot metal but still requires thorough surface preparation, including polishing and often grinding if pitted or rusty.
- Aluminum/Stainless Steel: These materials also have unique preparation requirements, often needing specific chemical baths and polishing techniques to ensure proper adhesion and a mirror finish.
- Size and Complexity of the Part:
- Large Parts: Full-length bumpers, for example, require larger tanks, more chemicals, and more manual handling, increasing costs.
- Intricate Designs: Parts with complex curves, engravings, or multiple small crevices require more meticulous hand-polishing and careful racking, which drives up labor time.
- Condition of the Part:
- Rust and Pitting: Parts with heavy rust or deep pitting require extensive stripping, grinding, and polishing to create a smooth surface before plating. This can add significant labor.
- Damage/Broken Sections: If parts are bent, cracked, or missing pieces, their repair services welding, fabricating, filling will add to the overall cost.
- Existing Chrome Removal: If the part is being re-chromed, the old chrome must be stripped off, which is an additional step in the process.
- Desired Finish Quality:
- Show Quality: Achieving a “mirror-like show appearance” requires an incredibly high level of preparation, multiple polishing stages, and precise plating thicknesses to ensure a flawless, deep luster. This is typically the most expensive option.
- Driver Quality/Stock Finish: While still excellent, this might not demand the absolute perfection of a show finish, potentially reducing labor slightly.
How to Obtain Pricing
As noted in the “How to Get a Quote” section, the only way to get accurate pricing from Advanced Custom Chrome is to call them directly at 814 899-1233 with detailed information about your specific parts and needs. Be prepared to discuss the condition, size, and desired finish for each item. They will assess the labor and material costs involved to provide a custom quote.
It’s common for specialized services like this to require a detailed discussion or even physical inspection of the parts to provide an accurate and binding quote, especially for complex antique restorations. Dailywins.com Reviews
Understanding the Chrome Plating Process at Advanced Custom Chrome
While Advancedcustomchrome.com doesn’t detail their entire process on their website, the nature of quality chrome plating, especially for antique and specialized parts, follows a generally understood sequence.
Their commitment to “top-notch service & quality” and handling “almost any metal” suggests they adhere to best practices in the industry.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical steps involved in high-quality chrome plating, which Advanced Custom Chrome would likely follow:
1. Initial Inspection & Assessment
Upon receiving a part, the first step is a thorough inspection to assess its condition.
- Damage Evaluation: Identifying dents, cracks, pitting, rust, and areas requiring repair.
- Material Identification: Confirming the type of metal pot metal, steel, aluminum, etc., as each requires specific handling.
- Existing Coating Assessment: Determining if an old chrome layer needs to be stripped.
2. Stripping Old Plating If Applicable
If a part is being re-chromed, the existing chrome and often underlying nickel layers must be completely removed. Weekendesk.be Reviews
- Chemical Stripping: Submerging parts in specialized chemical baths to dissolve old plating. This is critical to ensure proper adhesion of new layers.
3. Repair and Fabrication
This is where true craftsmanship for antique parts often shines.
- Welding/Soldering: Repairing cracks or breaks, especially common with brittle pot metal.
- Reshaping/Straightening: Correcting bends or warps.
- Filling: Using specialized techniques to fill deep pitting or missing sections in pot metal. This is a highly skilled process.
4. Extensive Polishing & Surface Preparation
This is arguably the most critical and labor-intensive step, determining the final quality of the chrome.
- Grinding: Using abrasive wheels to remove deep rust, pitting, and imperfections.
- Rough Polishing: Aggressive buffing to smooth out grind marks and prepare the surface.
- Fine Polishing: Subsequent stages of buffing with finer compounds and wheels to achieve an increasingly smooth, mirror-like surface. Any imperfection left at this stage will be magnified by the plating.
5. Cleaning & Racking
Before plating, parts must be absolutely pristine.
- Degreasing: Immersion in alkaline cleaners to remove oils, greases, and buffing compounds.
- Electrolytic Cleaning: Using an electric current in a cleaning solution to remove microscopic contaminants.
- Rinsing: Multiple rinses in deionized water to prevent contamination of plating baths.
- Racking: Attaching parts to specialized racks that provide electrical contact and allow for even plating while submerged.
6. Copper Plating Base Layer
For many applications, especially over pot metal or to fill imperfections, a layer of copper is applied first.
- Purpose: Copper is excellent for filling minor surface imperfections and provides a highly adhesive base for subsequent layers. It also allows for further polishing to achieve ultimate smoothness.
7. Nickel Plating Intermediate Layer
Nickel is the primary layer that provides the corrosion resistance, brightness, and durability of the finished part. Polska-anglia.co.uk Reviews
- Bright Nickel: Applied to achieve a highly reflective, lustrous finish.
- Semi-Bright Nickel: Sometimes used as an initial nickel layer for improved corrosion resistance.
8. Chrome Plating Final Layer
This is the very thin, hard outer layer that provides the distinctive blue-white color and extreme hardness.
- Chromium Bath: Parts are immersed in a chromic acid solution with an electrical current to deposit the final, decorative, and protective chrome layer. This layer is exceptionally thin, often only micro-inches thick, but it’s what gives chrome its signature look.
9. Post-Plating & Final Inspection
After plating, parts are carefully rinsed and inspected.
- Rinsing: Thorough rinsing to remove any plating chemicals.
- Drying: Careful drying to prevent water spots.
- Quality Control: Each part is meticulously inspected for adhesion, uniformity, brightness, and any defects. This final check ensures the part meets the “best looking, and the best quality chrome” standard.
This meticulous, multi-step process underscores why quality chrome plating, especially for antique parts, is a skilled and time-consuming endeavor, justifying its specialized nature and cost.
Advancedcustomchrome.com Shipping and Turnaround Times
While the Advancedcustomchrome.com website doesn’t explicitly detail their shipping procedures or provide specific turnaround time estimates, a business of this nature typically operates within certain established practices.
Given their specialization in antique parts and their global recognition, one can infer certain logistical considerations. Artacom.co.uk Reviews
Shipping Your Parts to Advanced Custom Chrome
Customers would be responsible for securely packaging and shipping their parts to Advanced Custom Chrome’s facility.
- Secure Packaging: Critical for delicate, antique, or already damaged parts. Use ample padding, sturdy boxes, and clearly label packages. Consider double-boxing for very valuable items.
- Insured Shipping: It is highly advisable to insure your shipment for the full replacement value of the parts. Antique automotive and motorcycle components can be rare and expensive to replace.
- Tracking: Always use a shipping method that provides tracking information.
- Customs for international customers: If you are an international customer, you would need to manage customs declarations and any associated duties/taxes when sending and receiving parts. This reinforces the need for direct communication with Advanced Custom Chrome to understand their international receiving policies.
Return Shipping from Advanced Custom Chrome
Once the chroming work is complete, Advanced Custom Chrome would arrange for the return shipping of your parts.
- Packaging for Return: They would be expected to package the freshly chromed parts with extreme care to prevent any damage during transit.
- Shipping Method: This would likely be discussed during the quoting process. Options might include various carriers UPS, FedEx, USPS and service levels ground, expedited.
- Shipping Costs: These costs would typically be added to the final invoice and paid by the customer.
Turnaround Times
Specialized chrome plating for antique parts is a highly labor-intensive process, and “rush jobs” are rare.
- Factors Affecting Turnaround:
- Current Workload: The shop’s existing queue significantly impacts how quickly they can start and complete your project.
- Part Condition: Heavily damaged, pitted, or rusted parts require more repair and preparation time. Pot metal, due to its fragility and complex needs, often takes longer.
- Complexity: Intricate parts with many crevices or complex shapes demand more meticulous handwork.
- Material: Different metals may have varying processing times.
- Number of Parts: A large batch of parts will naturally take longer than a single item.
- Typical Lead Times: While not stated, it is common for high-quality chrome plating shops specializing in antique parts to have lead times ranging from several weeks to several months, especially for extensive or complex projects. A realistic expectation for a full restoration project could be 8-16 weeks or more, depending on the aforementioned factors and the shop’s current demand.
Best Practice for Shipping and Turnaround
The most reliable way to get accurate information on shipping logistics and current turnaround times is to discuss them directly with Advanced Custom Chrome when you call for a quote. They will be able to provide realistic estimates based on their current schedule and the specifics of your order. It’s crucial to clarify these details upfront to manage your expectations for your restoration project.
Advancedcustomchrome.com Customer Service and Support
While the website for Advancedcustomchrome.com is relatively concise, the emphasis on “top-notch service & quality” hints at a customer-focused approach. Lastchancedeals.co.uk Reviews
In a specialized field like antique chrome restoration, direct communication and strong customer support are paramount.
Primary Mode of Contact
As noted, the primary means of contacting Advanced Custom Chrome is via telephone: 814 899-1233. This suggests a preference for direct, personal interaction, which can be beneficial for discussing the nuanced details of custom chrome work.
What to Expect from Their Customer Service
- Expert Consultation: Given their specialization, you should expect knowledgeable staff who can answer detailed questions about different metal types, the chroming process, and potential repair options for your specific antique parts. This expertise is crucial for guiding customers through complex restoration decisions.
- Personalized Service: Unlike large, automated businesses, specialized shops often offer a more personalized experience. This means direct communication with individuals who are familiar with your project.
- Quoting Process: As discussed, they will walk you through the process of providing details for a custom quote, which involves an interactive discussion rather than an online form.
- Problem Resolution: In the rare event of an issue, a reputable specialized service will typically work directly with the customer to resolve it. Their focus on “quality” suggests they stand by their work.
Areas for Potential Enhancement from a website perspective
While their current approach likely works well for their existing clientele, some additions could further enhance customer support for new inquiries:
- Email Address: Providing an email address alongside the phone number would allow customers to send detailed descriptions, attach photos of their parts which are often crucial for accurate quoting, and communicate outside of phone hours.
- FAQ Section: A dedicated FAQ section on their website could address common questions about their services, turnaround times, shipping requirements, and what types of parts they do/don’t work on. This could reduce initial phone call volume for basic inquiries.
- Online Inquiry Form: A simple contact form could streamline initial communication, allowing potential customers to submit their details and a brief description of their needs, prompting a targeted callback.
For a business operating in such a niche and high-value service, direct interaction is often preferred.
However, providing more digital avenues for initial contact and information gathering could make their services more accessible to a wider, digitally-savvy audience, especially their “world-wide” customer base. Woo-order.com Reviews
Ultimately, the quality of their customer service will be directly experienced through direct communication when you call them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Advancedcustomchrome.com specialize in?
Advancedcustomchrome.com specializes in chrome plating and restoration services for antique automotive and motorcycle parts.
They handle various metals including pot metal, steel, aluminum, and stainless steel.
Can Advancedcustomchrome.com chrome car rims or plastic parts?
No, Advancedcustomchrome.com explicitly states on their website that they cannot help with automotive rims or plastic parts.
Their focus is solely on metal components from antique vehicles. Forbiddenthirteen.co.uk Reviews
How can I get a quote from Advancedcustomchrome.com?
To get a quote, you need to call Advancedcustomchrome.com directly at 814 899-1233. Be prepared to provide details about your parts, including type, material, condition, and desired finish.
Does Advancedcustomchrome.com repair broken or damaged parts?
Yes, in most cases, Advancedcustomchrome.com can repair broken or damaged parts before chroming them.
This is a significant advantage for restoring rare antique components.
What types of metal can Advancedcustomchrome.com recondition?
They can recondition pot metal, steel, aluminum, and stainless steel parts.
Is Advancedcustomchrome.com recognized internationally?
Yes, the website states they are “now recognized world-wide” and have received requests for their services from as far away as England. Beal.org.uk Reviews
Does Advancedcustomchrome.com perform all work in-house?
Yes, all of the work, including full-length bumpers, is done at their facility. This suggests a commitment to quality control.
What is the objective of Advancedcustomchrome.com?
Their objective is simple: “To give you the best looking, and the best quality chrome anywhere, at a fair price.”
What is the typical turnaround time for chrome plating at Advancedcustomchrome.com?
While not explicitly stated on their website, specialized chrome plating for antique parts can take several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the job, the condition of the parts, and their current workload. It’s best to confirm this when getting a quote.
Does Advancedcustomchrome.com offer different levels of finish quality?
Yes, they can recondition parts back to a “stock finish” or to a “mirror like show appearance,” implying different levels of shine and perfection.
What should I do before sending my parts to Advancedcustomchrome.com?
You should call them first to discuss your project and get a quote. Maherspurecoffee.ie Reviews
Once you have a quote, ensure your parts are securely packaged and insured for shipping.
What is pot metal, and why is it challenging to chrome?
Pot metal is an alloy often zinc-based commonly used in older automotive parts.
It’s challenging to chrome due to its porous nature and tendency to corrode from within, requiring extensive preparation, copper plating, and careful handling.
How does Advancedcustomchrome.com ensure quality?
Their focus on in-house work, specialization in antique parts, and reputation for quality, including international recognition, suggest a commitment to high standards.
Their objective highlights “best quality chrome anywhere.” Rollasonflowers.net Reviews
Can I visit Advancedcustomchrome.com’s facility?
The website doesn’t provide information on facility visits.
It’s best to call and inquire if you wish to visit their location.
What is the difference between a “stock finish” and a “mirror like show appearance”?
A “stock finish” aims to replicate the original factory appearance, while a “mirror like show appearance” implies an exceptionally flawless, highly reflective, and often superior finish suitable for display vehicles.
Are there any parts too large for Advancedcustomchrome.com to handle?
Their website mentions they can handle “full length bumpers,” which are among the largest automotive components requiring chroming, suggesting they have the capacity for substantial parts.
Does Advancedcustomchrome.com provide a warranty on their work?
The website does not explicitly state warranty information. Marketprosecure.com Reviews
It is advisable to inquire about any guarantees or warranties on their chrome plating services when you contact them for a quote.
What are some common alternatives to chrome plating?
Alternatives include powder coating for durability and color, anodizing for aluminum, nickel plating for a slightly different aesthetic and corrosion resistance, and polishing.
Why is surface preparation so important in chrome plating?
Surface preparation, including stripping, repair, and extensive polishing, is crucial because the chrome layer is very thin and will magnify any imperfections on the underlying metal.
A smooth, clean surface is essential for a high-quality finish and proper adhesion.
How long has Advancedcustomchrome.com been in business?
The website does not explicitly state their founding year or how long they have been in business, but their claim of being “recognized world-wide” suggests a long-standing reputation and extensive experience in the industry. Fashionstash.nl Reviews
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