jody stowitts

Hi everyone! What's the "skinny" on colored wheels? I've got a black cab and am wondering about Cup I or D92 black wheels in lieu of chrome Cup I's. What's the majority consensus on paint vs. powdercoat? I'm assuming from some internet research that its easier to repair a flaw (curb scrape) if painted rather than powdercoated. And lastly, can tires be removed and refitted (by most tire shops) without chewing up the finish of either at the wheel periphery? Thanx in advance for your particular experiences (direct or indirect) on this!

Marc Shaw

I have 3 sets of powder coated rims (silver, matte black, and red) and another set at the shop now getting done (thanks Gene!).

If your tire guy is careful, they should not get chipped.

PC is tougher than paint but not impervious but you're right, paint is easier to touch-up.

Some say the heat from the PC process "weakens" the metal of the rim but other say that the heat required to melt the PC powder is not nearly hot enough to affect the alloy wheels.

Regardless, I have run PC wheels at the track for years with no issues (and the only broken wheels I have ever seen or heard of were not PC'd!).

YMMV.

Marc

964russ

In my exp PD wheels have a slight dull shine effect.
There allso more of a orange peal look.
Painted wheels shine, as bright as the rest of the car.

Done both to loads of sets of wheels, ive found that paint is best if you only want a color change or slight refurb.
If there a mess, corroded ect; id allways go down the powder route.

Marc Shaw

Depends if you get matte or gloss finish - my red ones are so smooth, bright and shiny I have been asked if they are plastic (uh, sure they are ).

Marc