I had somewhat minor smoke damage to some chrome and paint on the gas tank on my older Harley when a carb backfire caused a fire while I was working on it in my garage. I did not even see the flames and know it was burning at first. To make a long and somewhat funny story short, the smoke damage cleaned up easily from the chrome and paint and no damage was visible or reappeared for the almost five more years more that I owned the bike. That's my experience. Just sayin'.

 

The smoke damage on the bike I'm looking at has been on it for at least a couple of months. I'm expecting it to take quite a bit of elbow grease to clean it up.

 

TXSTGLIDE
You are exactly correct - Chrome never can be restored after fire. Water used to douse flames creates condensation which in turn combines with other elements to create toxins which damage the chrome forever - Yep! I'm afraid the bike needs to be totalled. Ask Mr White from Breaking Bad, he will give you all the chemical equation info.

 

There was a fire in the service department of the dealership where I worked . My Tool box and tools sustained heavy smoke damage. Although I was able to clean up everything all the chrome appeared etched. I can only assume that the burning materials caused a corrosive vapor. No water was on or in my tool box.

 

there is a product called Road Rash, it is in a small container that looks like the wipe on stick deodorant. My Dealer sells it. Sure you can get it on Ebay/Amazon

 

every Veteran has a can tucked away somewhere :>)

 

My favorite Chrome cleaner is Barkeeper's Friend. Must be in powder form on a damp rag. It must also be cleaned afterwards with clean water to remove the acid residue. It has been life changing for me.

 

Beezza reviving a 9yr old thread on his very first post. Classic. Welcome to the forums.

 

May try 0000 steel wool and chrome cleaner. Vinager may do it, it will take galvanization off metal.

 

ooops but it is good polish