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Aluminum wheel restoration

Discussion in 'Wheels & Tires' started by 4Runner fun, Jan 22, 2021.

  1. Jan 22, 2021 at 7:29 PM
    #1
    4Runner fun

    #1
    4Runner fun [OP] Just the beginning...

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    Wrangler Duratracs, center console organizer & trav all 1576 dog divider for the rear. Xpel wrap with ceramic coating. 20% tint on front windows. TRD intake. TRD oil cap Plus parts on shelf & a wish list.
    I just got these Excursion wheels for $150 for all 4. I am now reaching out to anyone who may know.
    1. Can these be restored?
    2. Is is reasonable
    3. If going on a work truck should I just plastidip & forget?
    I just need strong wheels! I carry crazy payloads.
    Thanks,
    Ryan.20210122_174519.jpg 20210122_174602.jpg Screenshot_20210122-203908_Chrome.jpg
     
    4Runner fun, Jan 22, 2021
    #1
  2. Jan 22, 2021 at 8:07 PM
    #2
    aroyalsfan

    #2
    aroyalsfan The Owner

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    I think what you're looking at on those wheels is just oxidization that occurs on untreated (raw) aluminum. There is a real chance you could get those back to as shiny as shown in the last picture with the right chemicals, different polishing wheels with compounds, and a ton of elbow grease. Unfortunately the aluminum will just oxidize all over again. Before you do anything you'll probably want to get that scale layer that's on there off. Perhaps the best bet is getting them powder coated. They will blast them before they coat them so you'll get good coverage. You could get a gloss silver powder coat. It won't be a mirror finish but it will be somewhat reflective.
     
    aroyalsfan, Jan 22, 2021
    #2
    4Runner fun[OP] likes this.
  3. Jan 22, 2021 at 8:26 PM
    #3
    4Runner fun

    #3
    4Runner fun [OP] Just the beginning...

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    Ryan
    Nebraska
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    2019 Black T4R TRD Off Road Premium
    Wrangler Duratracs, center console organizer & trav all 1576 dog divider for the rear. Xpel wrap with ceramic coating. 20% tint on front windows. TRD intake. TRD oil cap Plus parts on shelf & a wish list.
    I much appreciate your reply!
    As I am not firmiliar with polishing aluminum at all; is this something I could do myself or should I have it done by a wheel "fixer" guy that most cities have that can fix curb rash etc...
    I would love to learn how if you can recommend products to use! I only work during snow in the winter.
    Ryan.
     
    4Runner fun, Jan 22, 2021
    #3
  4. Jan 23, 2021 at 6:22 AM
    #4
    aroyalsfan

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    aroyalsfan The Owner

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    I've never done it either...lol.

    I wouldn't be scared to try though. All the DIY videos I've watched makes me think that it wouldn't be fun DIY though. Honestly I'd get a quote from a powder coater. That's a super straight forward project for them. After you buy everything you need to strip, scrape, abrasive wheels, polishing wheels, and all the compounds...what are you really saving in time or money?
     
    aroyalsfan, Jan 23, 2021
    #4
    4Runner fun[OP] likes this.
  5. Jan 23, 2021 at 8:54 AM
    #5
    4scooter19

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    4scooter19 New Member

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    4scooter19, Jan 23, 2021
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    4Runner fun[OP] likes this.
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Products Discussed in

BOSH CHEMICAL Aluma Bright, Aluminum Cleaner and Brightener, 1 Gallon Concentrate
$38.99
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