Modern Vespa

Hi all question my rear rack is starting to rust, is it possible to sand back the chrome and repaint ir should just buy a new one? Many thanks as always 😎

Of course.

You could also get it rechromed. The question is the relative cost, and whether a well restored and rechromed rack would last longer than a production replacement.

I've treated and rattle-can sprayed various bits. Works fine.

Send a pic of your rear rack..

If the racks we have on the Vespa's were really plated then they would not rust, but generally the quality control on the racks isn't as good as it can be.
Take a look at this link and you can possible get closer to making your decisions.

https://www.finishing.com/faqs/chrome.html

Cheaply made. Mine is doing it in the cracks. Those hard to get places are a real PIA.

To answer your question whether to restore or buy a new one:-
I personally always believe if something can be restored then one should attempt to do it. If you either don't enjoy restoring something and or feel that you could have someone do it rather than yourself then you may want to replace it. If you do decide to replace it, you could put up your rack on MV for sale and someone who needs a rack may pick it up..

In the US, actual rechroming has become very expensive. The more likely alternative is powder coating, in chrome finish or black or whatever. Even there, the issue will be cost of recoating versus replacement. Powder coating is, however, very durable.

Over here in the UK, re-chroming is not too expensive. The cost of a new rack is around £126 over here. Re-chroming is £45-£50. Re-chroming is usually a better job than the original if you go for the full process. I normally spray Waxoyl inside the rack tubing after gently warming the can in hot water first. Do this after re-chroming. It runs around the inside of the tubes a treat and remains permanently in place preventing and killing rust. I'd do a re-chrome! You can of course sand back as you suggest you want to do, but it won't shine very much and won't last as long.

How bad is the rust on this rack?

A bottle of Coke and some 0000 steel wool can take care of minor surface rust on chrome.