Difficulty Level

Tools/Supplies Needed:

• standard (flat) screwdriver
• paint marker
• wire brush
• 220 grit sandpaper
• 400 grit sandpaper
• degrease such as brake cleaner or rubbing alcohol
• clean lint free cloth
• tape
• paper
• dull knife/flat edge
• regular or high build primer
• 2 cans of spray paint (color choice)
• hammer

Procedure:

• first start by safely elevating your vehicle and remove the wheels
• you can also use your spare wheel to remove more than one wheel or to keep your vehicle mobile
• if you wish, you can wash the wheels, but you MUST allow the wheels to dry as any moisture can contaminate the surface
• so it would be best to wash your wheels the day before at the very least
• use a paint marker to mark where the existing wheel weights are located on the tire
• remove the wheel weights using a standard screwdriver
• using a wire brush, scrub the wheel surface down removing any loose paint or rust
• once satisfied, use 220 grit sandpaper to sand down the surface of the wheel
• this will help remove any rust or feather in the edges of pealing and chipped paint
• if your wheels were still in reasonable condition, finish up with 400 grit sandpaper
• use the tape and paper to mask off the tire and valve steam
• wipe the wheel down with a degreaser
• use the assistance of a dull knife or flat edge to assist the tape between the edge of the tire and rim
• if your wheels are in rough condition, then apply a high build primer which will help fill in any imperfections
• if they were in reasonable condition, then continue with a regular primer
• if you used a high build primer, allow the primer to harden and sand the surface down using 400 grit to help smoothen out the imperfections, then wipe down the area with a degreaser removing any sanding dust or residue which can affect the final paint's finish
• if you applied a regular primer, within about one hour after applying the regular primer
• apply a paint of your choice, here I am using a single stage acrylic enamel, three coats will be required
• first two coats should be light, allowing 10-15 minutes between each coat
• final coat is a full wet coat, allowing the paint to flow smoothly or a highly finished surface
• remove the tape and paper within about 30 minutes after the final coat was applied which will reduce the risk of have any paint edges damaged and allow for smooth tape lines
• allow the paint to harden, this will depend on the thickness of coats applied and your climate
• once the paint has hardened, reinstall the wheel weight using a hammer
• then reinstall wheel back onto vehicle

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Does clear coat need to be applied?

No it does not if you are using a single stage paint. If you are using a two stage base coat paint, then clear coat does need to be applied.

How many cans of paint are needed?

In the video I used two cans of paint for four 15" wheels. If your wheels are larger or more complex, you may need three cans instead.

Can I wet sand and polish the paint afterwards?

Yes you can, but you will need to allow the paint to cure.

How long does it take for the primer to dry?

This will depend if you use a standard primer or a high build primer. With light coats of either, it should be dry in 15 to 20 minutes. If you applies a heavier coat of high build primer, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour. That is why it's important to apply lighter thin coats. This will also be dependant on your climate as well.

How much time should I wait in between coats of paint

Normally wait 10 to 15 minutes in between paint coats.

How can I remove the orange peal or a run/drip in the final painted finish?

You can wet sand the paint and then polish it afterwards. But wait enough time to ensure the paint is cured.

Can this method be applied to chrome wheels?

Yes it can, although you must ensure the chrome surface is sufficiently sanded to ensure the paint stick. Also instead of the primer shown in the video, you must use an etching primer which allow the paint to bond properly to the chrome, otherwise you do risk the chance of the paint peeling.