Welding Chrome Plated Metal?

[PHPaul]

I want to cut a section out of a motorcycle fender and then weld it back together at about 2/3rds the original length. The underside is no problem, but the "top" is chrome plated. I don't especially care if the chrome gets discolored from the heat as it will be painted anyway.

Questions:

1. Can the chrome side be welded as is or should I find a way to remove the chrome plating?
2. Are there issues with fumes from welding chrome?

I have TIG available and will likely use that process as it's easier (at least for me...) to make fine welds with a TIG torch.

 

[davesl708]

You will need to grind the chrome off before welding. Welding produces unfavorable gasses so have good ventilation.

 

[CNC Dan]

grind the chrome off. The heat of welding will produce oxides of chrome, some of which are very toxic (hexavalent chromium).

 

[Gary Fowler]

Chrome does produce toxic fumes when welding, but it you have a little bit of wind and stand upwind when welding, I don't think you would suffer any ill effects from welding a motorcycle fender (10 minute job at most). I TIG welded stainless steel for years before it was discovered that it might be bad for you and I am still here and no lung damage.
I would just weld the back side of it and let the arc do whatever it needed to with the chrome. Like I said make sure you have good ventilation and stay out of the welding fumes.