Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

I am finally getting the small parts on my 71 Jimmy put back where they belong and it looks like the door striker pieces could use a makeover. Any recommendations on finish coatings and color, and what was on there originally?

Re: Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

I have been pondering this question myself. I was looking at using a Cerakote coating, or maybe taking it to a zinc or galvanizing plater. I put the Cerakote coating on an old shotgun and it has held up very well on the parts that move against each other. The company I used for the Cerakote does a lot of automotive coatings, which suprised me since I have always associated that coating with firearms. I was thinking about a silver or raw metal look for the striker plates. I would assume the Cerakote would be cheaper than plating.

Re: Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

Never heard of Cerakote, but it looks great. Is it sprayed on?

Re: Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

Powder coat. Cheap, looks good and lasts.

Re: Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

They blast the metal, and then apply it like powder coating, cooking it on at 250/300 degrees. I like powder coat as well, but I think the Cerakote holds up to wear a little bit better.

Re: Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

This is the original finish. Only pic I have showing the most of the striker. Nothing fancy and not painted. Black phosphate?

Re: Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

I'd go black phosphate like OEM and do the hood hinges, hood latches, and door latches at same time. Here are some NOS pieces I had replated due to shelf ware. The attachment hardware shown is clear zinc plated and all OEM: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...&postcount=159

Re: Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

Looks awesome, where did you have it done at? Local, or did you send it out.

Re: Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

Black phosphate is correct but I prefer black zinc. I find it similar finish but far more resilient.

Re: Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

Even the used pieces like the fender bolts turn out looking great. Here's an example hood hinge: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...6&postcount=68. After plating the hinges work so smoothly you can elevate and close the hood with one finger.

I've had my pieces done locally at Kaehr plating: http://www.kaehr.com

Arrow Plating in Weatherford, TX is another business other members have used for phosphate and zinc work: http://arrowplating.com/processes.html

Re: Door Striker Finish Recommendation?
 

Great info, thank you!