Tips for Refinishing Aluminum Wheels
#1
Tips for Refinishing Aluminum Wheels
I figured I'd make a thread with all the tips and how-to's that I've found to be helpful as I'm refinishing my wheels. These tips apply to all aluminum wheels, minus the ones about assembly.
I didn't write a step by step procedure for my wheels, but I will be able to tell you what does and doesn't work to try and save you some time.
Here are some how-to's to get started:
I know some of the assembly links are about specific wheels but it's pretty much the same for all 3 piece wheels. And as for polishing, the steps are the same for any aluminum part. I will be posting videos on disassembly, cleaning and painting later today as well as a list of tools and products so check back.
I didn't write a step by step procedure for my wheels, but I will be able to tell you what does and doesn't work to try and save you some time.
Here are some how-to's to get started:
I know some of the assembly links are about specific wheels but it's pretty much the same for all 3 piece wheels. And as for polishing, the steps are the same for any aluminum part. I will be posting videos on disassembly, cleaning and painting later today as well as a list of tools and products so check back.
#9
I forgot about this thread. Hopefully I still have the links to the videos.
The best advice is to take your time. And use sealant between the pieces. One of the tutorials said you didn't have to, but I ended up getting leaks on 3 of my wheels. So now they have to be redone.
The best advice is to take your time. And use sealant between the pieces. One of the tutorials said you didn't have to, but I ended up getting leaks on 3 of my wheels. So now they have to be redone.
#11
I would to be on the safe side. The silicone you use should be non-shrinking/expanding so it won't hurt. When you take the lip off, if there's a bead going around each side of the holes then definitely replace it with fresh silicone.
#13
Paint won't last long. I'd try anodizing/plating them. You could replace them, but it might be more expensive. For example a set of bolts for my wheels (140) would run $560.
#14
You could get non-OEM bolts as well. BFI sells them for $1.20 a bolt: http://yhst-1918367471896.stores.yah...rsnuandbo.html
#16
Any tips for more of a matte finish? Not a full polish, but just a clean metal look, I guess more like a machined finish? Im guessing itd be about the same steps, maybe just minus the super fine grit/polishing.
#18
I found a nice polish kit from a company that sells a lot of restoration tools.
http://www.eastwood.com/
http://blog.eastwood.com/eastwood-pr...l_buffing_diy/
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