Finish on inspection door machine screws

Hi Dan:

Yellow Zinc as it is commonly called - can be made to look very much like the original Yellow Cad... but only with strict attention by the platter to the chemical mix and process used. Most of the time Yellow Zinc plating lacks that original rich luster found on the original parts... it's close and most likely close enough for most .... but many of us noticed the subtile difference upon close examination or in the sun light.

The original Zinc plated parts - that look gray/silver were also bathed in a clear chromate solution.. they still look gray/silver, but after several years you can see a slight yellowing of the original clear coating. The guys in the materials lab tell me that is a sign that the original chromate coating is reaching the end of its lifecycle.. They also tell me that one can not stress highly enough how important quality control of the chemical solutions and the entire plating process is - to the end result, in terms of finish and durability. Likewise the quality of the part you start with...

FWIW,

Carl B.

Hello Carl,

Wow,,,I think that you have pretty well summed up the state of the Cadmium and Zinc plating industry as it has evolved into it's current status.

I now know why, when I open up that box of screws or nuts, and the part number matches my parts manual, but the color doesn't, it is as a result of

eco-friendly changes.

I have had a few parts zinc plated with a yellow finish and have been very satisfied with the multi-hue colored finish you discribed as being very similar to some of my NOS parts with the original factory finish. Generally, I'm elated if I find that an original part is available at my Nissan parts counter, and can accept subtle changes as long as the parts numbers match.

Thanks for your knowledgable explanations, Carl. You have helped to fill many gaps in my understanding and enjoyment of this hobby.

Dan