GM-GMC: Bed Rails, stainless steel versions, chevy silverado

Question
Hi there, I have a 96 chevy Silverado, and I have put on 2 sets of chrome bed rails where they don't seem to last for a year or so and little beads of rust are found on them.  I live in Cedar Rapids, IA where they do salt the roads in the winter.  I have treated them with a chrome wax to protect them.  I have purchased these on E-BAY and wondering if I just got some cheap rails.  I see other people with chrome rails and they look good year after year.  I know I could buy stainless steel but I like the chrome look.  I hate to try a third time fearing the same thing will happen.  I paid like $55 each time.  I know this is not a mechanical question, but it sounds like you been doing this for some time, please tell me what you think.  Thanks for your help, Bruce West, CR, Iowa

Answer
Bruce,

I can not find a single chrome rail manufacturer offering more than a one year warranty on the product.  Unlike a bumper, I suspect most manufactuers are using just a single coat of chrome.  Bumpers are usually triple plated against rust.

Where salt is used on roads, ferrous steel usually suffers.  I suggest that you look into the polished stainless steel versions, most of which have a lifetime warranty against rust, if you want a durable product.

Or, don't drive the vehicle on salted roads.