I have a plater that can do the filler and straps in either a bright or a matte tin finish. Based upon both the original appearance of the straps and a comment in Jeff's pdf article where he states that the reason for using lead/tin on the filler tube might be that it is non-conductive, unlike zinc. One would assume you wanted the same thing on the clamps. So I am wondering two things:
1. Is the filler better finished bright or matte (see example pictures). It would seem that when new it would have the bright look but as the finish oxidized it would look more like the matte.
2. Would the the straps be the same finish (Note that he tightening screws look to be clear zinc, so those are being plated separate from the straps).
Thanks,
-Scott