Cleaning Nickle

[jonathanjoy]

Hi Does anyone know a good method for cleaning nickle plate. I have some parts that are black (probably due to oxidisation) and to difficult to polish out. I’m thinking of some mild type acid, tried nitric on another part but it took the nickle off. any advice ?

[BRIAN MARSHALL]

No acids and no alkalis either. Very gentle metal polish only. Even Brasso is too abrasive because nickel is quite soft. A silver polish such as Silvo is the only safe way to go with Nickel. Chromium is much harder.
Brian

[jonathanjoy]

Thanks Brian, Would silvo on a buff be to aggresive ?

[BRIAN MARSHALL]

Should be OK provided that it is a soft calico mop, and don’t press on too hard. If that doesn’t work you may have to consider getting the stuff replated. There is a truly excellent book called “The Vintage Motorcyclist’s Workshop” by ‘Radco’ (Frank Farrington), that has a chapter on DIY Nickel plating, if you fancy saving some money.
Brian

[jonathanjoy]

Thanks, I did have a go at nickle plating with mixed results.I found it better to plate directly onto steel , when I copper plated first, the result was a black finish. I didn’t use brightener , but I believe original nickle plate was quite dull. I might try soaking in vinigar first. Thanks again, Brian.

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