how to blacken chain?

[Paul Payne]

I am building a 1930's tow truck and the winch will use chain. The chain I have is silver, and I would like to blacken it or at least darken it. Paint simply chips away. Any ideas?

[stitchdup]

fire?

[peteski]

There are many chemical metal blackeners available.  I usually use them on brass or copper chains.  If the chain is silver or silver plated then it should naturally darken (that is why silverware needs occasional polishing).  If you want to speed up the process, do in Internet search for "how to blacken silver".

For other blackening chemicals see https://jaxchemical.com/product-category/colorants/

I use those chemical  myself.

Also, black finish chains are usually available in hobby shops catering to model railroad hobby.

Clover House has some blackened chains available. https://cloverhouse.com/Cart/index.php?cPath=22

Edited April 13, 2023 by peteski

[tbill]

Hobby lobby has black chain, $5 will get you a life time supply.

[Paul Payne]

Thanks, all!

[SfanGoch]

VMS Track Black or drop the chain in chlorine bleach.