1934 grill and running boards

[dads34ford]

I am trying to decide on my 34 3 window couple which I am going back original as much as I can about rechroming the grill vs repo grill. Also was wondering the same about running boards repo vs recovering. Any info on this would be appreciated .

[rockfla]

I can tell you as for the grill, IF you have the Original and can afford Re chrome and use it, nothing fits like original. I have bought repro boards for 32 and one brand is better than all the rest.....I'm sure someone will post about those for 33-34.....I plan on recovering the ones for our 33.

[Bob/Pa]

Chrome the original grille, I did, repro's just don't cut it.

[DavidG]

If you want to go 100% original, when you are searching for a plating source try and find one who will plate with dull rather than bright nickel over the copper and before the chrome as that what was done originally. Following the nickel, only the raised perimeter and leading edges of the grille teeth should be polished as original. You will then have one of the few re-plated grilles around that actually looks like an original in all respects.


If you cannot find a plating source who does dull nickel, you can replicate the original dullness on the sides of the grille teeth and behind the raised perimeter with course Scotchbrite.


As a final touch of originality, paint the area between the hood lacing and the raised perimeter flat black to eliminate the see-through condition that exists at the front edge of the hood top and side panels. That step is often overlooked by restorers of '33 and '34 grilles.

[DavidG]

Drake reproduction running boards are the best of the lot as are their covers. There's a huge difference in price, but covers can be undetectable if done with great care (i.e. patience and perseverance).

[dads34ford]

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Very good information guys I value all opinions. Thanks

[95476]

I have used 4 of the Drake '34 grilles and have not had any problems with how they fit.
In fact in 2 of the cases they fit better than the old Ford grill that had been tweeked and repaired.
The gaps were perfect when I was done.

[Karl]

Personally I would always like to go with an original if I could.
The cost of a repo appears prohibitive especially when I add freight and import duties . However I wonder if the cost of repairing and re-chroming an original correctly as per David might work out more expensive -Would be interested in the cost comparison -Karl

[DavidG]

Unless the plater already has a tank dedicated to dull nickel it would most certainly be more expensive. Fudging it with Scotchbrite would not be more expensive, especially since you can do it yourself.