I have a '91 LS400 (bought it new) that has 15" chrome wheels. It had white wheels originally but the dealer swapped them for us. The problem is that they all have a problem with the chrome flaking off on the inner seating surface. I've used a stiff wire wheel on a 4" angle grinder to dress the surfaces which has improved the ability to hold air. With one wheel, however, we have a constant slow leak that we can't seem to fix.

I'm looking for solutions, preferably not involving purchasing a set of new wheels. In particular, I'd like to find a used replacement wheel but I gather that the chrome wheels in that era weren't very common.

I also need one or two of the center caps. One has the "chrome" peeling off and several fit loosely. They've all been wrapped with black electrical tape (by the Lexus service folk) to make them fit more tightly.

Any thoughts, ideas, leads?

 

Not a uncommon problem with old chrome wheels. Had the same problem on my 94LS. I had to rechromed the wheel, to stop my slow leak. You can also have the center caps redone also! Check Ebay and see if any centers and wheels are for sale?

 

mine has same problem leaking air slowly due to aged chrome fall off. michelin guys used sand paper to sand off some areas, less leak but still. may need to do re-chrome soon

 

I may have resolved my leaking problem, at least in the short term. I had the tire dismounted and then I tackled the wheel with an angle grinder with an 80 grit sanding disk mounted. I was able to remove all of the peeling chrome and took down the surface enough to nearly eliminate the effect of the pitting.

That was three weeks ago and the pressure is holding steady. I used to have to fill the tire several times a week. So far, so good.

 

these wheels are made by PRIME and are not really that good to begin with

 

There are so many rim dealers I would just replace with another set of lexus rims from any year LS or just get aftermarket, Probally cheaper than rechroming.