De-chroming my Style 168 Wheels

Carbon Schwarz · #1 03-04-2008, 05:59 PM

Some of you provided me with feedback with a previous thread I started about Chrome wheels on a 4.8is. Well I decided to proceed with the purchase (2006 Imola 4.8is) even with the blinged out 168's. The deal was a good one. With Spring approaching I have considered selling the chromed wheels or refinishing. I've researched the refinishing and I am going to give it a try. Essentially it boils down to the shop blasting the chrome surface and then powdercoating overtop. One color layer and another clearcoat. Cost is approx $100 per wheel excluding rubber removal/install. Curious if anyone here has any experience they wish to pass along.

I'll keep you all updated on the process, the result and final costs.

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E5M1R · #2 03-04-2008, 06:15 PM

I would sell and buy new ones, the repainted ones dont hold as well as original color

acitydweller · #3 03-04-2008, 07:13 PM

remember you have to balance those wheels after the tires are remounted too...

TowX · #4 03-04-2008, 07:27 PM

De-chroming is not a simple process since it isn't a coating but a chemical bonding. If there are any blemishes in the chrome (black spots), the wheel may be damaged while stripping, which will require grinding down the wheel in those spots to make it smooth again. I have a pair of Porsche Fuchs forged alloys out being de-chromed right now, and the shop doing the work specializes in just Porsche wheels, and they still hate stripping chrome. But they recommend to not media blast them, but chemical strip them instead. Big job even on a super strong forged wheel.
I'd recommend selling them to someone looking for chrome wheels rather than hassle with the work.