chrome corrosion/pitting... from what?

[elementx]

What causes it? I always see it on older guitars and such... the chrome plated parts like the bridge corrode, pit, dull, etc. is it moisture? can it be replated/repaired easily or is it just cheaper to buy new?

[v-bro]

Look at it under a microscope and you see what's going on....

You can have the chrome redone offcourse, but the first thing that I would try is chrome polish and wax...

[Nigel Goodwin]

Originally posted by elementx
What causes it? I always see it on older guitars and such... the chrome plated parts like the bridge corrode, pit, dull, etc. is it moisture? can it be replated/repaired easily or is it just cheaper to buy new?

I imagine it's mostly sweat that causes it!.

[pinkmouse]

The salt in sweat is the main cause, but atmospheric contamination can also be a problem where guitars are displayed and not played. The pitting usually descends into the base metal, so replating isn't an ideal option, (if you can find someone to do it). If the guitar is a classic, then don't replace the parts, you may well affect the value. If not, you can swap them out.

If you don't want a new guitar to go this way, then the chrome, (and other metal parts), needs to be cleaned everytime you use the guitar. I used to use woodworking bit and saw blade cleaner sprayed only onto a cloth, not onto the guitar. It cuts grease and sweat, and leaves a protective anti-corrosion layer.