Not to sound ignorant, but can aluminum be chrome of nickle plated?? I have a Trailblazer and I want to dress up the top of the motor. I have a bunch of mods that just arrived and the head looks plain. I have not yet installed it so now would be the best time to work on it. If plating isn't possible what are my options for polishing the metal, including inside all of the cooling fins?? Thanks in advance for any opinions.

 

You can chrome plate aluminium or you can polish it. The plating will require less attention just wipe it off. The downside is chrome can flake or bubble off eventualy. Polished aluminium requires more attention it will tarnish and you have to polish it to keep its lustre. Also chrome plating will not transfer heat as well as bare aluminium.

 

chrome also flakes easier on aluminum then steel

 

Thanks can either one of you recommend someone that does plating?? I'm looking at those cooling fins and seeing a polishing nightmare!! Also Sandman is the heat transfer going to be a significant difference?? I have several mods being installed and I will not sacrifice reliability for looks. Thanks.

Bill

 

It will retain more heat...honestly I don't know how much on an ex. Probably not enough to be concerned with. Beech is right about it flaking or bubbling on aluminium...it really has to be done right. I prefer polished alum I just like the look and don't mind the upkeep. I know lots of people are going to chrome over polished aluminium because of ease of keeping a shine. Best thing to do is check a local harley or street rod shop for plater's/polisher's in your area.