WyattsRide

Went to my local "chromer" to see if my center caps could be redone without hurting the center badge. He said they couldn't but, if the center badge could be removed, then they could. But, even with them removed he didn't know if the badges could be reinstalled due to the chrome thickness.

So, my questions are.
1. Has anyone had any success in removing the badges? It looks like an epoxy holding the posts. Maybe use a heat gun?
2. For the price of chroming these (about $140) can I find nice replacements? If so where? I checked out our 3 and didn't see them.
3. Any other ideas?

These are off chromed S4 discs. I don't know if they are OEM or not.

Jim M.

The factory never offered chrome wheels or center caps. Dealers often had the wheels chromed as a way to mark up the price. Sooooo, you won't find chrome caps at any of our great vendors or the dealers parts wharehouse. Best bet is to use heat as you guessed, and when the badges are removed enlarge the holes for the badge posts so they will still fit even after chrome is applied.

WyattsRide

Thanks Jim.

I don't think the holes for the posts being too small is the problem. Since the badge is recessed into the cap he thought with the added plating, the badge wouldn't fit back in. Maybe the recess can be enlarged a little before re-plating?

SteveG

Rick: Your addiction for that shiney stuff has gotten you in a pickle.

[Note: I'm previous owner of car and am appalled at any changes to my baby; he wasn't content to leave it alone.]

I hope you find satisfactory solution.

WyattsRide

Steve,
Did I tell you about the 20" Spinner wheels and the pink stripe down the middle of the roof and hood I was adding?

RKD in OKC

Didn't you see the new 918 Racer, orange is the new pink stripe.

Seem I remember Automotion selling chromed center caps with the crest.

WyattsRide

Wow, they do @ $115 each. OUCH!

SteveG

The stripe will not be noticed when you install the jet turbine and cut the hood.

WyattsRide

Now that's just ridiculous!

Th Dude

Based on the locking set screw hole I think I see on the inside lip of your caps, I think you have Boothe design caps.
IMHO, they are THE best...if a little pricey....

http://www.boothedesign.com/centercaps.html

Plenty of choices in several finishes.

WyattsRide

Thanks Derek the Booth Design center caps do look like mine. Mine has 3 set screws and are heavy with a very nice inset badge.

$90 each at Booth Design.

pcar928fan

I said I didn't like them at first, but I lied...I do like them, but I don't like them from the perspective of the morons at car places who will try to beat them out w/ a hammer! For me they are great if not a bit fiddly but for commercial practices you have to keep an eye on them!

WyattsRide

Little update on these.

An E-mail to Boothe Design confirmed that they are theirs and that they were made 15 - 20 years ago. Ralph said he didn't see how these could be repaired though. He didn't know a "way of applying heat without total destruction". I e-mailed him back to be more specific on "total destruction". I'm not giving up yet.

Jim M.

Use a heat gun, not a blow torch. I'll bet they can be removed. With the corrosion in your pics the bond between the crest and the cap has probably been compromised anyhow.

WyattsRide

It took about 20 mins. total to remove the badges unharmed. The first one took the longest. All that needed was to remove the epoxy from the three spots with a small chisel and removed the retaining ring on the center post. Off popped the badge. No problem. Now for the re-chrome.