If the chrome on your classic car is showing its age, you really only have three options: 1) find reproduction parts to replace the originals, 2) re-chrome the original parts, or 3) tell everyone you’re going for the patina look! Of course, depending on your car and the part, finding a reproduction replacement isn’t always an option. That’s where D&R Chrome comes in! D&R is a family run business with over 30 years of experience, and they specialize in re-chroming classic car parts. They’re also Pomona Swap Meet regulars, and you can find them on our Main Aisle (Road D, Spaces 6 and 7) at every show!

D&R can restore ANY chrome parts on your car. They don’t just fix the part, they make it look new again. Bumpers, guards, grilles? Yep, they can do them. Moldings, mirrors, door handles, emblems? Bring ’em on! Engine parts, suspension components, exhaust systems? You know it!

Here’s a look at D&R’s process:

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Along with re-chroming and plating, D&R Chrome also offers “smoothing”. Smoothing is a process where they take a bumper that is in multiple pieces and weld the pieces together to form one seamless bumper. In addition to the welding, D&R fills in any holes that they find and smooths those out too.

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Want to know a little more about D&R and how they got started? We recently caught up with their team and asked a few questions. Check out our interview below:

Pomona Swap Meet:  Who’s in charge around here?
D&R Chrome:  Mr. Ricardo Loera is our President, and his brother, Mr. David Loera, is the Vice President.

PSM:  When and how did D&R get started?
D&R:  The Loera brothers started to work for various chrome companies in 1984. Repairing and chroming metal parts on classic cars was their specialty. David started to straighten and weld the parts, and Ricardo learned to polish and chrome the parts. They were learning and training in separate ways, but in the same industry. In 1995, after working for 10 years in the field, Ricardo wanted to start his own business. He talked with David and they decided that they would put in the hard work needed to start a business. They knew it wouldn’t be easy, but they loved repairing and chroming metal parts for classic cars so they decided to make their dream a reality. They started their company in the garage of their home in South Los Angeles, and then slowly started building their customer base by advertising their products at swap meets. Little by little the company started to grow, and in 1997 they were able to rent a small place. That’s when D&R Chrome was officially born!

PSM:  So what exactly does D&R do?
D&R:  We repair and chrome metal parts of classic/antique cars. We also sell bumpers, guards, and grilles.

PSM:  What’s the best part of your job?
D&R:  Working in a family business that allows us to know, see, and be around classic cars all day. David and Ricardo also truly enjoy the interactions with the customers and creating a sense of community. They want to get to know the customers and they want the customers to get to know them. People do not buy from us or come to get their parts repaired at D&R Chrome just because it’s cool, they come because of David and Ricardo. The brothers have proven to the customers that they are dedicated to the company and their work. Success comes when you are able to gain the trust of your customers; when you can produce affordable, high quality chrome restoration; and when you are honest, have integrity, and have quality team members helping you succeed.

PSM:  How can customers contact D&R?
D&R:  Customers can visit our website or shop with us through our eBay store. We also have a Facebook page. Besides our social media, we think the most important way to connect with our customers is in person. We attend many swap meets every year and can be found at the Pomona Swap Meet on Road D, Spaces 6 and 7. We enjoy shaking hands with customers, talking with them, and seeing their cars with the parts that were chromed by D&R Chrome.

PSM:  How long have you been coming to Pomona?
D&R:  Since 1998.

PSM:  What are your most popular items at the swap meet? What sells fast?
D&R:  1955-1959 Chevy bumpers, and our service to repair and chrome metal parts of classic cars.

PSM:  Do you offer any swap meet deals or discounts?
D&R:  Of course. The prices at the swap meet are our “Special Rates”. We also offer bundled pricing if a customer wants to chrome all of the metal parts on his or her vehicle. Our bumpers, guards, and grilles are also sold at a lower price compared to buying them directly from our eBay store or at the shop.

PSM:  Anything else customers should know about your company and your products?
D&R:  Our products are original. We do not accept work on reproduced metal parts. We appreciate your business and would love for you to stop by and come see us!

Here’s a peek at D&R Chrome’s set up in Pomona…

 

If you’re interested in learning more about restoring the chrome on your classic car, stop by D&R Chrome on the Main Aisle at the next Pomona Swap Meet and Classic Car Show!