Hi all, I finally got some Torq Thrust Ds for the ol' Mav, but now I have a dilemma. The previous owner painted the spokes black, and I want them gray. How would you suggest I get the black off with out harming the gray factory paint. On one I got almost all the black off with some paint stripper and other cleaning products but it looked like it might affect the gray if I keep on going. American Racing won't help in what paint to use, so I was wondering if anyone knew what kind of paint would look like the factory gray on these wheels, or where I could find that information. I think I might just strip all the paint off and then repaint them if I find a similar gray. Thanks. -Corbin
Wheels Corbin I would stip the old paint completely with aircraft paint stripper, or have them bead blasted. Plasticoat makes a paint specifically for aluminum wheels in the proper color. The other option is to have them powder coated in the color of your choice. I saw a post on the board for a MCCI member who has a powder coating business and who offers free shipping for MCCI members. Of all the choices, I personally would pick the powder coat method as it is the most durable. Tony
Great! Thanks Tony, Plasticoat, huh? Do they have a website or would I just go to a automotive store and see if they carry it? I was thinking about powdercoating them, but I haven't made up my mind of what to do yet. Thanks. -Corbin
plasticoat Corbin They have a website but pep boys has a very good selition of their products and a catalog if its not in the store. Tony PS I still would go with the powder coat.
Powdercoating aluminum wheels is dangerous. If the proper heat is not used you can overheat aluminum, which ruins it's heat treat and makes them very very weak. Can lead to wheel breakage. There are a few different powdercoating techniques, some higher temperatures than others. For aluminum wheels should be no more than around 350 deg F. Just make sure if you powdercoat you use a reputable coater who knows what they are doing.
