Tail lights

[garyp]

What is the metal on my 39 Dodge tailites they are somewhat pitted what is the best way to clean them and also my bumpers and trim?  

[desoto1939]

The metal is known as potmetal and these do pit over time because of the rain. They are not stainless steel.  The main belt trim is stainless steel. The grill is brass with chrome plating.

The trim corner piece on the hood side panel is also pot metal.

Call me rich Hartung I have the 39 Desoto which has the same body style as your 39 Dodge. I live near King of Prussia PA cell 484-431-8157  also have spare hood for your 39 Dodge.

Desoto1939@aol.com

Rich Hartung

[bobostski]

The best way to brighten them up is chrome polish or I like to use paint rubbing compound. Don't use steel wool as this will remove the thin layer of chrome and make's it loose  it's shine and leave scratches on the surface. Be sure to use plenty of elbow grease. You can use a toothbrush with polish or compound to get into hard to reach areas.

[DrDoctor]

   I’ve used 0000 (“four-oh”) steel wool with good luck on pot metal as well as bumpers, trim, etc. However, it the pitting is significant, nothing will work without the pits “popping” much like a comedo (pimple), as the chrome has been lifted from the substrate, and nothing will reattach it. There are a few chrome plating concerns that specialize in the restoration and re-chroming of pot metal, but I have no idea what the cost would be. However, given the present state of affairs for chroming shops with the Environmental Protection Agency, I’d guess the costs to be significant. Thx.