Drilling through chrome

[CSFJ]

So, I've decided that I would like to keep the tow shackles on #4. However, I want chrome bumpers too. I figure this leaves me with 2 options. Option 1) find a new set of CUCV bumpers and have them chromed. (while the ones on the truck are far from mangled, they've been used enough as bumpers that they're noticeably not straight.) And option 2) drill/cut the openings in a pair of chrome bumpers (which I have a very nice set of, both front and rear.)

The question that I need to know is, can you put holes in a chrome bumper without it flaking and looking like hell? Is there a way to keep the chrome from flaking after it's done, or should I just plan on option 1?

 

[Camar068]

see vid below. Looks like he's using flux, used for sweating pipes, on it to help dissipate heat. [edit] actually its cut-it similar to the 2nd link.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omLQy5zu90Q

https://www.amazon.com/TTP-HARD-drills-Drilling-Lubricant/dp/B00FPLVPVM

 

[Georgeb]

Drilling a chrome bumper id different than drilling in chrome/moly steel. You will have no trouble drilling your bumper. Use some cutting oil and try to keep from creating too much heat. Deburr and degrease the finished holes and apply a bit of paint or cold galvanizing compound to the holes and you will be good to go.

 

[CSFJ]

see vid below. Looks like he's using flux, used for sweating pipes, on it to help dissipate heat. [edit] actually its cut-it similar to the 2nd link.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omLQy5zu90Q

https://www.amazon.com/TTP-HARD-drills-Drilling-Lubricant/dp/B00FPLVPVM

Interesting. I didn't think about better bits to cut through the chrome more cleanly, I'll put that on my list to get too. What I'm really wanting to know is about the possibility of the chrome flaking off after the cutting is done. I'm thinking that if I do this, I'll end up using a drill to make the corners, then connect the holes with a saw or cut off wheel.

 

[Georgeb]

Interesting. I didn't think about better bits to cut through the chrome more cleanly, I'll put that on my list to get too. What I'm really wanting to know is about the possibility of the chrome flaking off after the cutting is done. I'm thinking that if I do this, I'll end up using a drill to make the corners, then connect the holes with a saw or cut off wheel.

Saw it don't use a cutoff wheel. Heat is your enemy.

 

[CSFJ]

Drilling a chrome bumper id different than drilling in chrome/moly steel. You will have no trouble drilling your bumper. Use some cutting oil and try to keep from creating too much heat. Deburr and degrease the finished holes and apply a bit of paint or cold galvanizing compound to the holes and you will be good to go.

Saw it don't use a cutoff wheel. Heat is your enemy.

10-4. This is what I needed to know. I had though about paint on the edges, but I'll look into getting some cold galv compound.

 

[yevgenievich]

I had put holes in the rear bumper of suburban with no issues. A hole saw and some cutting fluid. Then sprayed clear coat on the edges.

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[Craig 85]

I think the issue becomes rust bleeding from the raw steel around the cuts as there is no chrome to protect it. Check your price on chroming too. In this wonderful land of California, many chromers are no longer in business due to regulations. I just got quoted $750 for my front bumper and it's straight!

 

[CSFJ]

I think the issue becomes rust bleeding from the raw steel around the cuts as there is no chrome to protect it. Check your price on chroming too. In this wonderful land of California, many chromers are no longer in business due to regulations. I just got quoted $750 for my front bumper and it's straight!

Having avset of CUCV bumpers chromed was always an option, but I think I'll be ok modifying the factory chromes I have. I fully plan to put something on the edge to reseal the fresh cuts, probably something epoxy like, then use a piece of door edge trim as a finisher over the cut.