Generator lost its luster...replace, paint, chrome cover?

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Greg Spreeman
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Location: South Orange NJ

Generator lost its luster...replace, paint, chrome cover?

#1 Post by Greg Spreeman »

My generator has seen a few engine failures and the finish is looking really shoddy. Is there a silver paint that's durable enough to last? What about the chrome covers I see advertised on VW sites? Any other suggestions?
Greg Spreeman
1965 356SC Coupe
1964 356C Coupe
2001 996 Cabriolet

Gone but not forgotten:
1970 914
1965 356C Sunroof Coupe
1989 911 Carerra

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Steve Proctor
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Location: Spring Hill, TN

Re: Generator lost its luster...replace, paint, chrome cover

#2 Post by Steve Proctor »

I am facing the same issue and plan to Scotchbrite or Steel wool the finish to a nice matte finish. Maybe start with a gentle wire brushing to get past the oxidation. You could probably follow up with a polish if you really want. Will be interesting to see what other options are available. I'm all ears...
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Steve Proctor
Member Since 1977
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Larry Wilson
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Re: Generator lost its luster...replace, paint, chrome cover

#3 Post by Larry Wilson »

zzzzzzzzzzz
Last edited by Larry Wilson on Thu Oct 25, 2012 2:39 pm, edited 3 times in total.

Greg Spreeman
356 Fan
Posts: 774
Joined: Fri Mar 14, 2008 9:47 pm
Location: South Orange NJ

Re: Generator lost its luster...replace, paint, chrome cover

#4 Post by Greg Spreeman »

Hey Larry, that's a beautiful engine. I'll have to see what we have for cad plating sources around here.
Greg Spreeman
1965 356SC Coupe
1964 356C Coupe
2001 996 Cabriolet

Gone but not forgotten:
1970 914
1965 356C Sunroof Coupe
1989 911 Carerra

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Vic Skirmants
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Re: Generator lost its luster...replace, paint, chrome cover

#5 Post by Vic Skirmants »

If you decide to re-plate the housing, your biggest problem will be getting the screws out that hold the field coils.

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Tom Tate
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Location: Boston MA

Re: Generator lost its luster...replace, paint, chrome cover

#6 Post by Tom Tate »

I've done a few of these with a bench mounted wire wheel. Tape/cover up the holes so that nothing gets inside and then I use a rattle can high temp clear spray when it's finished. It doesn't take long and seems to keep its plating like look for years. Photo below is not the best one I've done but an example. I got better with practice. KTF
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