Richard Fortier Corvettes Logo
Richard Fortier Corvettes Logo

Services

Machined metal part on newspaper-covered workbench.
Metal disk with three protruding hubs on workbench.
Used metal drum lid on workshop table.
Metal surface with welded chain link.
Close-up of a metal surface with circular patterns.

Metal Finishing

At the forefront of metal finishing, we bring you unparalleled craftsmanship combined with cutting-edge technology. Our services cater to a diverse range of metal components, providing them with the durability and aesthetic appeal they deserve. Our team, equipped with extensive knowledge and precision tools, ensures that each piece—whether it’s for industrial machinery or decorative purposes—undergoes a transformation that highlights its strength and beauty. We specialize in various finishing techniques, including polishing, anodizing, and powder coating, each tailored to enhance the metal’s inherent properties while meeting your specific needs.

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Chrome Plating, Cadmium Plating, and Phosphate Plating

I offer chrome, copper, nickel, black and gray phosphate, and cadmium plating. Polishing is another service performed by people who specialize in these state-of-the-art methods. We do air cleaner covers, ignition shielding, stainless moldings, bumpers, die casting repairs, etc. Most parts G.M. made for the C1, C2 and C3 Corvette’s can be restored to like new condition. Have a look at some of my completed special projects shown in photo albums on my site. I think you’ll agree I like a challenge! Cleaning old parts is essential to a nice, finished product, I offer this as an optional service. Be sure and check on some of the Corvette forums for my work.

Chrome Plating Terms “Flash Plating”
Many novices in the hobby have coined this term which is misleading. This term states G.M. suppliers “flash chromed” numerous parts in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. The fact is chrome platers don’t recognize the term “Flash Plating”. During production years, under hood chrome items weren’t polished to a high luster, the metal was slightly de-burred then nickel and finally chrome plated. The resulting appearance was rather dull and grainy. If G.M. had used copper first, then nickel and chrome, commonly known as “triple chrome” most flaws would have been “filled in” with copper. This would have enhanced the parts final finish. Conclusion, the “flash chrome” term is inaccurate and was never used by G.M. in its plating specifications.

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Machining

Machining capabilities here include lathe work, belt sanding, mill work, CNC jobs and numerous other machine shop offerings. Accuracy is all important in my finished product. If you need a specific part made and have an original sample, call me to discuss your desires. If you need to see examples of my past work, I’d be happy to show you some from past customers. Previous experience as founder and owner of Paragon Reproductions from 1967-2002 helped me understand my Corvette customers’ needs. Let’s see what we can do for you!
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Restoration Consultation

In the event you are unsure of what fastener to use, what type of plating it should have, I can give you my best advice to assist your problem. If you are searching for a unique part, I may be able to find it and restore it to N.C.R.S guidelines. Unfortunately, I cannot guarantee any part I restore will garner your car a top flight, I ‘ll do what I think is most appropriate for your Corvette. There are always questions I will ask regarding the part or fastener you need, so phone and email communication will be essential to avoid confusion. I charge $125.00 per hour for this rather time-consuming work and research, but what you require isn’t available from the big box stores. There are only a few people in this industry with 50+ years’ experience so be careful who you choose for guidance.

Sincerely, Richard Foriter

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