Cracked Wheel.....advice?

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Nov 17, 2011 | 05:17 PM
  #1  
Hey guys, so I just needed some advice from my fellow ISx50 mates. Here's what happened:

A few days ago I hit a pothole. I did not know it then, but it eventually cracked my rim. This led to leaks in my tire in the damaged area, which of course led to the demise of my tire. I'm pretty bummed, but hey, what can I do right? just gotta bite the bullet and take care of it.

So I was just going to buy another rim (my rims aren't that expensive), but the guy at the shop said it was easily repairable with some small welds. I have the Five Axis S5:F, pic below for reference. So my question to you guys is, do these welds hold up good? (If anyone has had any experience with repairing a rim this way) He also told me that the welds would be very faint in appearence....and hardly noticeable (the crack is on the inside of the rim). I know it's always great to save money, but I'd hate for that rim to crack again and ruin my tire again.....I just bought (2) new front tires because of this. I figured.."might as well buy 2 new fronts for the sake of balance....right?"

I know I don't have the best rims, but I liked the look. Which is why I bought them. But now I'm seriously thinking of spending some real money on some more pricey wheels....better quality? I thought my wheels were of that quality, but one cracked.....? I know there is a lot of variables on how they break, but I'd just like to know what you guys think on the welds.....or just buy new wheels? Club Lexus members have never steered me in the wrong direction, and I appreciate all you advice thus far

(Sorry no pick of the cracked rim. I left it at the shop )

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Nov 17, 2011 | 05:27 PM
  #2  
Repaired wheels will never be as strong as how the wheels were originally. If the wheel is inexpensive, I'd go ahead and replace it.
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Nov 17, 2011 | 05:35 PM
  #3  
+1 on just replacing the cracked rim. I wouldn't feel confident rolling in re-welded rims.
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Nov 17, 2011 | 05:41 PM
  #4  
Id say.... Whats the cost? If its less then 75% to repair, then do it, I good weld will hold up better then something untouched... If a Rim repair shop believes in his / hers work, they are in business for a reason....

jus my .02
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Nov 17, 2011 | 06:26 PM
  #5  
In general, a good weld is as strong or stronger than the original metal.
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Nov 17, 2011 | 06:48 PM
  #6  
Quote: Id say.... Whats the cost? If its less then 75% to repair, then do it, I good weld will hold up better then something untouched... If a Rim repair shop believes in his / hers work, they are in business for a reason....

jus my .02
I was thinking this too bro. The weld repair is $90 and a new rim would run me $300. I think I'm just gonna repair since I eventually might just buy a whole new set of wheels sometime next year.

Thanks for all the good advice to all that posted. =)
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Nov 17, 2011 | 07:49 PM
  #7  
I say it is time for a nicer set of wheels! VOLK FTW LOL
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Nov 17, 2011 | 07:54 PM
  #8  
Quote: I say it is time for a nicer set of wheels! VOLK FTW LOL
Haha heck yeah =)
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Nov 17, 2011 | 08:22 PM
  #9  
This right here should be another example to all replica haters, because you're right 8lastoff your wheels ARE quality wheels.
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Nov 17, 2011 | 09:00 PM
  #10  
Quote: This right here should be another example to all replica haters, because you're right 8lastoff your wheels ARE quality wheels.
Thanks bro, yeah I agree, any wheel has the potential of cracking. Dang potholes
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Nov 17, 2011 | 09:21 PM
  #11  
Quote: I was thinking this too bro. The weld repair is $90 and a new rim would run me $300. I think I'm just gonna repair since I eventually might just buy a whole new set of wheels sometime next year.

Thanks for all the good advice to all that posted. =)

you've got a pretty good decision there,start saving now for your next set of wheels and i know that we cannot prevent hitting potholes or bumps but add more caution on driving,it's not cheap to replace em!
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Nov 17, 2011 | 09:29 PM
  #12  
repair..save....NEW WHEELS!!
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Nov 17, 2011 | 09:37 PM
  #13  
i would get a new one in fear of future problems with repair.... but that's me!

this is because i do not have much confidence in welding cracks back together.

repair now... ride until tires worn. sell as-is with full disclosure!

Best wheel to repair is 3pc.
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Nov 17, 2011 | 09:38 PM
  #14  
Quote: you've got a pretty good decision there,start saving now for your next set of wheels and i know that we cannot prevent hitting potholes or bumps but add more caution on driving,it's not cheap to replace em!
Ain't that the truth

Quote: repair..save....NEW WHEELS!!
+1 yup yup
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Nov 17, 2011 | 09:42 PM
  #15  
Repairs aren't too expensive so get it fix in the time being But in the future get better wheels, preferably Japan made which is super strong. Lots of aftermarket wheels mix the raw material which causes the wheel to be weak and more vulnerable to potential cracks, bents, etc.
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