I’m looking to change the colour of my ND wheels to a gloss black, to match the aero kit.
So, is powder coating or paint the way to go? Any pros, cons etc of either?
Thanks
Jenks
I would say that powder coating is a tougher and longer lasting finish. If they powder coat, they will clean and cover the whole wheel (inc the bits you cannot see) (having watched them do it on Wheeler Dealers - a great source of info!!!), but if they paint, they may just paint the bits you can see. Ideally if the whole wheel is cleaned and done professionally then it will be a longer lasting job.
I know that when restoring motorbikes, it is usual for the frame to be powder coated for a longer lasting finish, however if you want a truly “original” finish, you need to go with paint…however it does not look quite as good.
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A DIY solution is plastidip. Mask the back of the wheel off, wipe down with alcohol wipe then spray with plastidip.
It’s a DIY solution though and non permanent.
It peels off after a while.
Some powder coaters are better than others. I used one on an old car I had and they couldn’t get the wheels right they came out primer grey instead of silver.
Lepsons have a good reputation.
100% agree on WD!
Powder coating is now well within reach, cost wise, and is a tougher final finish than paint/lacquer.
The minor downside is if powder coating gets chipped, you’re not able to touch it up without it looking ■■■■.
I have both and look after my car, keep away from kerbs and they both look superb after nearly 12 months and 10k miles.
If you keep your wheels clean, either will look fine and stand up well to motoring life
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As mentioned powder coating is prone to chipping. Personally I wouldn’t use it for wheels, but that’s just my choice.
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If you powder coat it needs to be a wheel specialist.
I had a set done in Scotland and the guy must have overheated them. It was a set of 16" NB wheels. They all cracked on the spokes a few months later.
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Have found the wheel specialist very good in the past.
Get a quote then leave it a few days and they will reduce it.