I forgot to mention that the chromed turbo twist wheels (depicted in my post above) were also fitted as standard equipment on the 'millennium edition' Carrera in 2000. I think a few of the stateside Porsche parts suppliers ordered a bunch of these thinking they might 'take off' in popularity. Obviously, most Rennlisters have 'voted' differently, but I took a chance on them, and have been very happy with the slightly 'rougher' (aka 'sportier') ride of the 18" inch wheels. I can take or leave the chromed look, but it's not that excessively blingy.

-rick

 

There is a option code for polished turbo twist, my C4S came with them. Not my taste, so they are in the basement.

 

It's my understanding that on the Millenium edition, can't speak for the rest, that Porsche did not actually put chrome on these wheels. It is apparently a very special process of polishing and coatings that looks like chrome but does not weaken the surface.

 

Stealth: thanks for confirming my suspicion.....

 

I think chrome wheels look fine. The problem with chrome is that it cracks with age. Then you end up with slow leaks whenever you change your tires. A Real pain in the ***

 

Weidman and Reid have a long-standing great reputation for their work. I would defer to them for any advice regarding "un-blinging" wheels. But IIRC, chrome is a chemical plating process that that is not readily reversible ...not inexpensively, anyway, and not without the lingering question of whether I'd want to still use the "un-chromed" wheel. A polished finish is no problem, though. Again, defer to the experts.

Edward

 

I'm trying to find the TSB that states that Porsche has never had chrome wheels nor do they condone the use of chrome wheels on their cars because of the chroming process damaging the strength of the factory wheels metallurgy. I know I have it on my computer, somewhere. Porsche has only had painted or polished wheels from the factory. Chrome would have been done by aftermarket supplier.

 

Yes, something like these...kind of a cross between "titanium silver" and polished.

 

Here is an example of the Millennium edition.





I have heard, as "prshguy" mentioned, that the factory didn't plate these, but that they are some other type of "chrome look" coating, possibly some type of powder coating.

FIY - Many have complained that the aftermarket chrome P-wheels started to peel, exposing a copper/orange under coating.

Aron

 

the process of making them shiny is only of secondary importance (for removal of said) the fact that porsche actually did it, as opposed to aftermarket was the main question.....

seems like they would have to be painted in order to conceal whatever it is (was)....

 

I could be totally wrong, but did Porsche not offer polished MY02's on 2004 "Anniversary" Carreras?

 

I have seen them on 40th anniversary cars also...