funglenn

iTrader: (10)

Guys,

I have decided to paint vs powercoating my rims. While their are plus and minuses, the main problem is hte powercoat guys will not remove my tires and all that--they leave it to me to do all that which I am not a fan of. Plus I have major curb rash on 3 rims and many places really are not looking at repairing the curb rash, just sandblasting and powercoating.

I found this place that will repair the curb rash (sanding down) and also paint them a nice graphite silver. http://www.awrswheelrepair.com/usa_c..._colorado.html Also the painting takes 1 day vs 3-4 for the powercoat.

my only concern is the center caps--how can they get painted.

The place said they can paint them, but don't know how to remove the center lexus symbol off the center--any body have any ideas? I don't really want them painted over.

Also anybody know of a place in colorado that does powercoating AND WILL remove the tire from the rim as a one stop shop?

Thanks

Luxotic

iTrader: (6)

this is a hack job if any place does not remove the tire ... in the midwest most places remove the tire

slidingIS

just stop by a tire shop on your way to have them powder coated itll cost like $20 for them to take the tires off. ive had wheels both ways and the clearcoat on the paint will eventually crack and come off. powdercoating is definitely the best way

funglenn

iTrader: (10)

I don't think I explained myself right--the powercoat places will not remove the tire from rim, but need me to bring just the rims--because you are right, the rim must seperate--that is a pain pain.

Sffd103

iTrader: (16)

I'd say it depends on how long you want to keep these wheels. If you want to keep them this way forever, then go with powder coating. If you're going to do it, do it RIGHT! Otherwise paint them and wait till it chips all up.

slidingIS

^well said, do it right the first time

tenspeed

iTrader: (1)

Get some plastidip - spray the center caps - remove the plastidip from everything you want painted - remove plastidip from emblem after paint is applied.

or get some of the paint and hand paint with a brush.

JDMJNKY

Powder coat is the most durable method IMO, whether you keep the rims or not. Powder coating re-assures the next buyer that the rims were done properly. PC'd rims tend to keep it's re-sale value, as long as the color is within the norm. Also, If you want to add additional protection against marring or light blemishes you can ad automotive clear. This will also give you the option to add a "high" polish wet look to the finish.