Restoring stamped serial numbers lost by milling

[Dan K]

Just in case you've had a block milled and wonder if you've ruined its value, I thought I'd give you a trick we use in our work, when firearms serial numbers have been defaced.
Stamping stresses the metal beneath the numbers, for some depth. Using a 50% hydrochloric acid / water solution with a qtip and wearing rubber/latex gloves, rub back and forth and keep applying as it dries. It will take some time, but like magic, the numbers will reappear. It works a little faster if a small electric current is applied across the area, even 1.5 volts (D-cell) will do it. It works, because the acid eats the stressed metal faster than the surrounding metal.
Give it a try. You will possibly again have a numbers matching vehicle. Good luck. Dan

[flynbuick]

Here is the old post from 2004 where we discussed this and linked to where you can acquire the solutuion.


http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?t=51973&highlight=raise+numbers


"I would buy the appropriate serial number restoration fluid for ferrous metal, clean the surface and then take a picture. Once the metal has been stamped the the metal underneath is affected too but in a way the eye cannot detect without some treatment post bock decking.

Something like this


http://www.crime-scene.com/ecpi/69XX.shtml


is used to raised numbers on firemans shaved but the principles apply to your application. Let us know how is works for you. "

__________________
Jim Lore
BPG 1037

[doc]

On alluminum, all you have to do is rub a lemon on the area and the acid will bring the numbers out. This is a common law enforcement practice in the field. There are kits that have hydrochloric acid for metal testing, contact your local jeweler, he can advise you how to get them.

[ss4825]

That is some great info guys.