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Are alloy wheels clear coated?
All alloy wheels are finished with a clear coat of paint for a glossy and protective layer. After a while, the clear coat fades, looks dull and can begin to turn yellow from oxidation.
What is the best finish for alloy wheels?
Although powder coating is The Wheel Specialist’s most popular and most durable alloy wheel refurbishment service, diamond cut finishes are also very desirable. Corroded diamond cut wheels are very common. Applying the lacquer paint to a polished surface will not achieve a long lasting finish.
Are all alloy rims painted?
Yes, alloy wheels can be painted. Just be careful, as the likelihood of the paint starting to peel is high. Painting alloy wheels is a great way to hide damage like a scratch or just change-up the look. They can be painted all one color or made extra spiffy with a two-tone scheme.
How many coats of lacquer do I need for alloy wheels?
Obviously use the best you can find, many car paint supply shops provide lacquer in a spray can which should be better than the stuff from halfords etc. Use multiple light coats to avoid runs. If using a gun then one light coat followed by two/three normal coats should be sufficient.
Do painted rims last?
If the surface to be painted is correctly prepared and the proper paint is used, the life of the finish can be indefinite. So, in short, if you have your wheels painted by a truly skilled and expert wheel finish pro, your paint finish should basically last forever (wheel-based altercations aside).
How do I know if I have diamond cut alloys?
If the wheel is two-tone, with a darker inner and a silver outer, then it is highly likely to be a diamond cut alloy wheel (left-hand side photo). If the wheel is all the same colour, then the chances are it is a painted wheel (right-hand side photo).
Is it safe to powder coat alloy wheels?
The simple answer is Yes. Countless wheels have been powder coated and driven on without issue. While some manufacturers will void the warranty of a wheel if they are powder coated, countless OEM and aftermarket wheel manufacturers already choose powder coating for their preferred finish.
How long does lacquer take to dry alloys?
When you have applied the lacquer to your wheel and are happy with the finish you must allow 12 hours for the lacquer to dry properly.
Why do you put lacquer on alloy wheels?
This final step to cover them with a protective lacquer enhances the finish but most importantly protects the alloy wheels against environmental influences including UV radiation, salt, moisture, dirt, etc. at all points. This video shows you how the lacquer is applied to the alloy wheel.
Do you get 0% interest on alloy wheels?
0% APR and 0% Deposit! Get your alloy wheels on interest free finance! AlloyWheels.com also offer 0% alloy wheel finance packages to suit most applicants, this includes 0% deposit and interest free credit, or you can pay by card. We do everything we can to ensure your buying experience is smooth and easy.
What are the different types of alloy wheels?
Types of alloy wheel finishes vary greatly. Some of the most popular are: Painted & Lacquered – standard for most cars, e.g. Audi, BMW, Ford, etc. Powder Coated – a more durable finish. Anodised – used on some aftermarket custom wheels and lightweight race wheels.
Why do alloy wheels need to be painted?
Whether you own a pair of steel or alloy wheels, simply having them painted can add an extra depth of style and personalisation, as well as adding a protective finish that will help to extend their working life. Paint is applied as a liquid—pigment floating in a carrier—and the more coats you layer up, the thicker the protective layer becomes.