Bumpers - SS vs. Chrome

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Jun 30, 2012 | 01:45 AM

Tug Hercules

Thread Starter

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Joined: May 2012

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Bumpers - SS vs. Chrome

Folks,

I am about to purchase front and back bumpers for my '51 Ford F-1.

I had planned on in chrome. However I see most of the major vendors also have them in polished SS.

What is the recommended choice?? Why??

Thank you.

Tug Hercules

Jun 30, 2012 | 06:01 AM

raerjim

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: May 2006

Posts: 1,696

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From: S.W. Florida

Chrome rusts and pits. S/S does not.

Jun 30, 2012 | 01:38 PM

AXracer

Hotshot

Joined: Oct 2004

Posts: 15,882

Likes: 88

From: Durham NC

If you plan to keep the truck for a long time, park the truck outside, drive it often, go with the SS.
The biggest difference is SS is a darker silver, not as reflective.

Jun 30, 2012 | 06:06 PM

tlb

Elder User

Joined: Dec 2003

Posts: 586

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From: East Palestine, Ohio

Stainless is the only way to go. A lot of the chrome comes from China and the quality is ñot consistant.

Jun 30, 2012 | 07:27 PM

Moe Craig

Cargo Master

Joined: Sep 2010

Posts: 3,426

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From: Hot AZ (Phoenix Valley)

Some stainless steel rust... it depends on what grade it is... and the metals it comes in contact with. Also polished SS doesn't mean you don't have to protect it with a good wax... You should put a good way on all metals no matter what it's been coated with or without.... just my 2 pennies...

Jun 30, 2012 | 08:56 PM

51PanelMan

Lead Driver

Joined: Dec 2004

Posts: 7,669

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From: San Jose, CA

Just to let you know, all repro bumpers that you see in catalogs are smooth for 48-50 and 53-56 style. In 51-52, the bumpers were ribbed. These bumpers are not reproduced. I have several available, but all of them are used and need to be repaired, refinished or chromed. Please PM or email me if you're interested.

51-52 Front bumper(s)