Fixing Chrome Parts

Some of the chrome parts on the Interceptor cleaned up and I was able to save them which was documented in a previous post. My next step was to figure out what I could fix and re-chrome Vs what must be purchased new. Chrome work is very expensive here and high quality reproduction “Made in England” parts are cheaper than re-chroming originals. When I am restoring a bike I think of it went through before it reached my hands. Maybe I am a bit sentimental but I respect its history and want to keep as many original parts on the bike as possible and even use the original finish when I can. Although I have purchased some excellent reproductions I have had a few  I was not satisfied with. The original Interceptor parts were very well made supporting my decision to re-chrome them if possible.

Pretty sizable dents and cracked chrome.....time for an intervention. 

After several hours with a ball peen hammer and small aluminum tools it came out nice and it will be re-chromed. 

The front fender is a riveted two piece design. 

The rivets were ground off and punched out from the back. 

Rivets ground off and ready to punch out. 

The rear fender was bent and had to be restored to its original shape. 

Clamps and my trusty ball peen put it right but it kinked and cracked which needed to be repaired. Small crack TIG welded and ready for grinding. 

The rims were also in need of help. They were not too rusty and had their original "Dunlop" trademarks which made them worth saving if possible. 

Checking run-out on the rims. 

The rear is alright but the front must have hit something pretty big as it is out of round & toasted. 

The latest interruption......

Grandma's washing machine engine runs alright once it gets going but is hard to start as the flywheel magnets are weak. A common problem on 1920's B&S motors I am told. A trip to a "relatively local" magneto specialist with a recharging apparatus did not provide a cure. Time to find a new flywheel..