2nd Generation Specific (1986-1992) 1986-1992 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections.

opinion on coating Enkei RSE wheel...

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Old 09-07-01 | 12:49 AM
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HENRX7's Avatar
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opinion on coating Enkei RSE wheel...

ok guys, i'm gonna have my wheel coated to white but I am still contemplating if I should do it all the way or just the spokes. let me know your opinion on this one. here is the wheel so you'll have an idea. i know it's nice already but i wanted it white
Old 09-07-01 | 10:09 AM
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I think you will need to do the whole thing due to the fact that the spokes attach to the rim weird, and kinda high so it would stick out if they weren't all done. Those are the wheels I have on my 91 white vert. Post some pics when you get them done.
Old 09-07-01 | 10:36 AM
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damn, i hate to lose that chrome finish man. hey Dave, i post a message on the West Forum regarding the open-track event on Oct. can you reply with some details please. thanks.
Old 09-07-01 | 12:17 PM
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Be wary of coating your wheels. Powder coating will weaken the metal and can lead to failure, especially under track conditions.
-Matt
Old 09-07-01 | 05:09 PM
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what is the cost for powdercoating.
Also, how does it weaken the metal? By what means is it changing the structure?
Old 09-07-01 | 05:47 PM
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It changes the metal by aging the aluminum alloy prematurely... from another board:

The heat from powder coating can potentially over age the aluminum but that depends on the duration the wheel was originally aged at the time of manufacture and it depends on how long the powder coater exposed the wheel to the approx 400 deg F heat to cure the powder. 400 deg is in the age range for most aluminum alloys including cast alloys.

An interesting note for all you with chrome wheels. The plating process also weakens a wheel in a process called Hydrogen Embrittlement. This makes them decidely NOT safe for track use.
-Matt
Old 09-07-01 | 06:05 PM
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hey Matt, I think I'm just gonna have mine painted not powder coated. The shop I heard of does a pretty good job on painting wheels. So do you guys think I should paint it all the way or just the spokes? Coz if just the spokes, I'm gonna have them polish the outer rim.
Old 09-07-01 | 06:05 PM
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Isn't white with billets kinda weird looking though?
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