refinishing opinions

[mateo710]

so i just picked up a set of e39 style 32s that have some paint flaking. im going to go ahead and refinish them by hand. Ive always loved gunmetal rims on black cars and have been doing some research on brands of paint, primer, etc. what have you guys used and how has it held up?

[jehu]

I have never done this but my first thought was Paint will not hold up long at all.. You need to have them Powder Coated if you want them to remain in any reasonably decent shape for very long if you plan on driving ..

[mateo710]

I have never done this but my first thought was Paint will not hold up long at all.. You need to have them Powder Coated if you want them to remain in any reasonably decent shape for very long if you plan on driving ..

thats what i figured too but i was reading in the wheel and tire section and as long as you use a good self etching primer, good paint, and some coats of clear, then they are far more durable than just some single coat rattle can job.

[jehu]

How do you strip them?

[DarkKnightM3]

I'm in the same boat with my m pars mateo710, while I want them to look good I fear the self paint process may not last as long. I will most likely have them powder coated. As for the color I couldn't agree more that for your schwarz a gunmetal setup especially on style 32's (jealous) would look superb!

Let us know how it works out and post pics!

[Breech]

You can actually get a good looking and lasting finish by hand. Sand all the chipping paint off. Scrub them hard with some scotch brite pads. Clean them off with some thinner. Prime any spots that are sanded through the paint. Paint whatever color you like. Wet sand any blemishes. Clear it. Wet sand and buff if necessary. I've had wheels done like this that lasted years.

[Hoolie]

Use etching base coat for alloy.. Also use wheel paint ..

Or better yet. Have them powdercoated... They can do gunmetal too :D