Painting vs Powder coating alloys

[carlmoffett]

I took my car in to have a small scratch repaired on one of the wheels and they ended up painting all four wheels as they couldn't match the paint. The job that they have done is unbelievably bad. Fortunately I work for the same dealer group which means that I have been able to kick a few backsides. They have offered to paint the wheels fully again and this time the bodyshop manager will perform the work.

I am undecided whether to simply tell them that they need to send the wheels to a specialist wheel recoater such as SEM in Sunderland. Does anyone have any experience of painted wheels rather than powder coated? I would have thought that paint would be less durable? SEM is a very good wheel refinisher but I am nervous that the side faces of the spokes will not be a smooth as the original BBS finish when they are powder coated.

Your thoughts will be appreciated as I have dwelled on this one myself too much and it continues to pxss me off.

[m3desmo]

I prefer powdercoating for wheels, but most refurbs are spray finished. I have always had my bike wheels powder coated when they have got scruffy from multiple tyre changes etc, but haven't ever had car wheels done yet, but this would be my chosen route if you have a full spare set and are not pushed for a quick turnaround.

[carlmoffett]

Thanks for the reply. I have looked on a couple of sites and powder coating is approx 3 times stronger. I will therefore push for a proper job.

[m3desmo]

Just make sure that the mounting surfaces and wheel bolt holes are masked off properly before powder coating as you will otherwise need to remove the coating there before refitting and it's a tedious job - I speak from bad experience here!

[shim]

i have a spare track set of CSL alloys and want to paint them before I put the Cups on next week.

has anybody had any prices for powder coating alternatively has anybody done the cheap option and sprayed themselves (i mean the wheels of course)and if so with WHAT type of paint and laquer?????????????

[anonymous-user]

Total Wheel Works in Nottingham powder coat and repaint wheels. Here is ther number....07930879423. Ask for Rob.