I have a question for the chrome experts out there:I would like to cut (trim about 2") the engine/transmission interface cover without damaging the chrome finish.Is that possible?Should I have a machine shop do the job in order to get a clean cut?Thanks

 

Having a machine shop do the work only guarantees that it will be straight (and that's not always guaranteed). It's how good the chrome is to start with. There are different methods of chroming and you run the risk of "chipping" the edges of the chrome where the cut is being made on any chrome part but more so on the cheaper stuff. I have a small machine shop here at work and have had this happen to me. Most of the H-D factory chrome is high quality and the risk is less but not absolute!

 

It is possible to machine areas without damaging the chrome, assuming it is being done by someone with experience in this type of work. We use a shop about 10 miles from us that has done jobs like that for clients of ours. However, even when done right you will be creating a potential future problem. Once you create an edge where the plating is cut away, you are upping the chances of the plating failing in that area in the future. The proper way to do it would to have it re-chromed after machining.

 

Thank you guys,the part is an original H-D brand new cover therefore I assume that the quality of the chrome should be good.I'll try to find a good machine shop to do the job and if I don't like the outcome I'll have it re-chromed.

 

That.

 

mask it off and go slow afterwards put some silver paint of the edge.