drumstix5001

I have a 2003 silver TL and am thinking about painting my rims either black/black chrome or a darker silver/ gun-metal color. Which color do you think would look best?
Has anyone done theirs? if so how did they turn out/hold up against the weather/elements or driving? I'm not too sure of how to go about it either so can anyone help me out on how they did it or any good ways of doing so?

3.2TLc

~Tires, Wheels and Suspension ......this sub-forum may be more helpful for what you're trying to accomplish. What color is your TL ? Powder-coating is the best choice for overall appearance and durability, but it can be expensive ! Are you painting the OEM rims or aftermarket ?

What condition are your rims presently in ? They can be refinished by prepping and using the proper products designed for this purpose. The end result will ultimately depend on the amount of effort you spend researching this before attempting to do it yourself.

drumstix5001

I would be painting my OEM rims. they arent in terrible condition, probably has some curd rash and some other scuffs just from normal wear. I know i would have to do a little sanding and some good cleaning on them to prep them

fsttyms1

Prep work is more important than the actual painting. If you don't take your time here the paint won't last.

Carbuff

A few years ago, the Spousal Unit incurred some Curb Rash on our OE rims. I repaired the damage myself...sanded the gouges out, and clear coated them. It was impossible to obtain the same machined "look" as the OE aluminum. I got close, but I CAN TELL.

For the best job, I'd suggest talking to a wheel refinisher. I've used Wheel Collision Center in Bath, PA but I know there are places in most major metro areas that could do the job (or show you some alternate finishes).
http://wheelcollision.com/

3.2TLc

Yeah, depending on the overall desired finished appearance.....ya gotta take your time with the prep. If the rim's present clear cote is relatively blemish free, then all you'll need to concentrate on is the rash & scratch skuffs. These imperfections will jump out at ya, .....if not detailed properly prior to painting. Everything must be leveled and smoothed to attain a nice finish.

Once everything is meeting your standards, be sure that the surface is well prepped and use only top quality heat resistant paints designed for refinishing wheels. Several light coats of base left to dry, then finally the protective clear. You'll be your own judge of quality and the control of it !

Nicks2001tl

I just painted my after market American Racing Rims Gunmetal and they turned better than I hoped.

Duplicolor has a step by step on its website.

Or Do what I did.....

First Clean Rims with a Very good Degreaser Inside and out, and rinse all cleaner off completely..

Then use a 400 or 600 grit sandpaper and rough the surface and grooves up thoroughly.

Once that is done spray a base coat or primer. If bare metal self etching primer is recommended.

Your primary color of choice should have a minimum of 2 coats.

And to finish use a clear coat. Also at least 2 coats.

Nicks2001tl