Thinking of painting the rims black on the AstroBlack 07 MC I just got. I've seen some good results of painting rims, just am curious how well the paint lasts. I am considering buying new rims instead, just don't know which ones are where to get them. So I am open to suggestions for some budget black rims.

 

Here’s my take....

I own a bodyshop and didn’t even paint my rims. Painted rims don’t hold up any where near as well as powdercoat.

Having said that, if you’re looking to save money, take em, sand em, mask em and spray em with a spray bomb.

They’ll look great but won’t hold up as well but who cares, you can easily (and cheaply) spray em again in a year or so.

Go for it.

My .02 worth....



Mark

 

...how well they'll hold up with a DIY depends widely on a few variables:

-the prep job
-painting conditions (humidity,temp, etc.)
-weather conditions*

...don't know where you live, but if it is harsh in the winter...that will make a big difference, and if so...would recommend keeping those lil' spoolers as they are..for winter, and look for a decent deal on some black wheels you want.

I have some s-lites that I got super cheap & painted to have as an extra set, they are holding up well...but I don't live in harsh winters...& don't have them on car all the time..they are heavy..I want to sell them
J

 

Ironic they call them "S" lites.... yet so heavy....

Which is a shame cause I think they're great looking wheels.


Mark

 

...yes, they are nice looking wheels, I got all 4 for a $100..(because they were curb rashed)...so I smoothed that out & painted.

...I heard folks on here comment on how heavy, ...but I didn't really believe...had to find out for myself
J

 

I feel like you need to dismount the tires. Sand blast them. Paint and clear and making sure you get the inside a little bit. Then carefully remount after the clear has hardened, probably a week honestly. I did this on my 05 Kawasaki Zx-6r. Turned out great.

 

and dont curb them lol. paint will start chipping and thats all bad news lol. and you should probably primer if you do the manner i stated above

 

I take it they are stock wheels. I would say ditch them for lighter weight wheels. Stockers are not worth powdercoating. Everything else about painting has been covered already.

 

http://www.autogeek.net/german-wheel...ation-kit.html

I did a set of phone dials with that kit. I had them sandblasted.
I think the same result could have been obtained just using aircraft
stripper. They look factory new.

 

It's easy to paint wheels, and i agree with mark, it's not hard at all, and a great way to save money. The best advice I can give (after having done several wheels myself) is to go to a well-respected automotive paint supplier and get a good quality can of paint with a well-designed nozzle, as that makes all the difference in the world.

Also make sure you get good quality etch primer, and, as mentioned above, prep is EVERYTHING.