Might not be that significant, but not as much heat will transfer from the oil
splashing around in the rocker box to air passing over the cover if it's
chromed.

On Wed, 12 May 2004 23:37:44 +0100, Peter wrote:

Hi All,

After just two years from new, the paint has mostly come off the
Lycoming IO-540 rocker covers, and I have taken the opportunity of an
annual to get them chrome plated.

I've had various non-aviation bits chromed in the past, both polished
and satin chrome.

But, having cleaned the covers out, I noticed that the steel is plated
with something, possibly cadmium. Presumably this will need to be
removed first. What would happen if the chrome plating on the inside
of the rocker covers started to peel off in chunks? It would really
mess up lubrication... And chrome plating can do that unless done
absolutely correctly.

Should I take care to not plate the inside of the covers?

Any suggestions much appreciated.


Peter.