pdobbs

I found a good set of track wheels that are 18" turbo twists off a '99 C2, but unfortunately they're chrome. I'd like to get them powder coated, but is anyone familiar whether 1) is it possible to powder coat a chrome wheel, and 2) is it better to start off with a standard painted wheel or does it matter?

Many thanks in advance.

nick49

Many so called chrome Porsche wheels are actually a shiny chrome like ceramic powder coating. If they are electrostatically plated with chromium, they have been zincated and copper plated first. This is true triple plated chrome. The chrome is a very thin and super hard skin of metal applied over a relatively soft base metal, aluminum.

For a good bind the chrome must be removed, contrary to what many powdercoaters may tell you. Many platers charge as much to remove chrome as they do to plate it, but you can remove it yourself with muriatic acid. don't breathe the very toxic fumes or touch the acid. Wear rubber gloves, rubber apron, very good eye protection and have plenty of water on hand for rinse or quick dilution. Oh and don't do this indoors. I always strip the chrome myself before powder coating or painting. GL

Much better to start with a painted wheel, then have them sandblasted. Chrome wheels are great for Escalades or those that think beauty is enhanced by adorning with things having shiny and reflective qualities. On my Harley, but not my Porsche.

RPMulli

hey ill trade with ya.. i have a set of silver twists...

ivangene

if they really are chrome - stripping them has become increasingly more difficult due to EPA rules on chemicals... most shops cant afford to offer the service and some states dont allow it

(if powder coating, they should be stripped before coating)


BTW - OP, when I see your avatar, I miss my seats

okbarnett

they have really good primer that will stick to chrome, no problem. It will last as good as origional painted wheels do. The cheapest and easiest thing to do is have them primed and painted. They will be as good as factory painted wheel. The powdercoat isnt much of an advantage to this. If they are for utility use, why bother.

pdobbs

Thanks fellas. I knew someone would know what to do. I can't do chrome (a la the Escalade comment) and it sounds like too much of a headache to deal with it otherwise. Will wait for another set to come up.

Pac996

I'd think no matter what you'ld get moisture penetration then bubble rust like chrome likes. You can flash coat chrome with copper That would look cool and fun to shine or let get the old copper look......ok I'll shut up now.