I have read about 20-30 posts on here with folks having problems with the yellow chromate. Add me to the list...
Chromating for 3 seconds or so (what the manual states), does nothing. Chromating for 40 seconds or so, gives a nice color. (PS. I didn't recieve chromate crystals, but a chromate solution)
As other users have mentioned, touching the chromate while its wet, wipes it right off. When its dry, its much more durable, but a forceful application of my thumbnail wipes it right off. Is it supposed to wipe off when wet?
I have read tons of posts on here about this, and still have questions:
1) How durable is the chromate supposed to be
2) Does the chromate "harden" with time? Will it be more durable after a week or two?
3) What are the most common reasons for the chromate NOT working? I have seen posts where it was recommended that the acid dip be skipped. Other where it was recommended that one dip for a longer period of time. Some folks recommened more time flushing the newly plated pieces with distilled water. Others have recommended tap water.
WHAT ARE THE REASONS FOR THE CHROMATE NOT BEING DURABLE?
More washing time?
More/less time in the acid dip?
More drying time?
Has anyone achieved a VERY durable chromate finish? Whats your secret? The parts look great...but I really don't want to be redoing all of them any time soon...
Any help appreciated. (PS. I am following the new manual to the letter, when it comes to plating/chromating).