DIY Alloy wheel refurb

lordrobs · 3 Feb 2006 at 12:57

I've been looking at getting some XSi Alloys for my 306 but a lot seem to be suffering from bubbling / flaking.

I was wondering if I could pick up a cheapish set if I could refurb them myself? I'll be completely honest i'd be going into this as a complete amature but as I wouldn't be in any real hurry to get them on my car I could really take my time getting them up to scratch.

Just wondered if its a stupid idea or whether I should give it a go? Also a rough idea on what i'd be letting myself in for work wise would be good too.

Thanks.

233 · 3 Feb 2006 at 13:12

easy done m8 google for numerous guides

lordrobs · 3 Feb 2006 at 13:38

I've found a guide on a celica forum and it doesn't seem too bad tbh. Seems patience and preperation are the key.

Basics as far as I can tell:

1. Rub down with 800 Grit to remove paint and any scrapes. Fill any gouges with alloy filler (probably won't need to do this myself)

2. Spray on primer (approx 5 coats)

3. Rub down with 1000 grit when hard.

4. Spray with paint (approx 5 coats)

5. When hard apply clearcoat (approx 5 coats)

That sound about right. If so I think its withing the relms of possibility for me to do that!

I might be tempted to spray them in gunmetal grey... Might have a play with photoshop before I decide though. Need to source some cheap wheels first

Morba · 3 Feb 2006 at 16:00

apparently you want 2pck spray for alloys due them needing harder wearing paint.

mr jamez · 3 Feb 2006 at 16:40

Use nitromors to get rid of all the old paint and junk, fafthing about with paper will take forever. Rotary tools with wire brush attachments are a god send for getting into the hard to reach places. I think 2 pack would be best also, use UPOL clear coat, £15 a can but it is very heardwearing.

If you go to a proper paint retailer you will get some decent advice and products...

lordrobs · 3 Feb 2006 at 20:14

Thanks for the tips. Just gathering info at the moment as I still need to source the wheels although I might be able to get some sun/mon night.

Will be nice to ditch the 13" steelies, plus the extra rubber on the road might make it feel less skittish when accelerating hard.

233 · 3 Feb 2006 at 20:18

dont use 2pack cyanide based not really recomended for diy

if u dont want to diy try some of the car clubs plenty of folks on there do it for you for beer tokens i'd do it if you were closer (the joys of having a shot blasting cabinet at work