So, you’ve noticed your alloy wheels aren’t looking their best. Scratches and scuffs can really take a toll on their appearance. But don’t worry – refurbishing your alloy wheels can restore them to their former glory.
If you’re wondering what’s involved in the process, you’re in the right place. Let’s walk through the alloy refurbishment process step-by-step, breaking it down in a way that’s easy to understand.
Inspection and Preparation
The first step in alloy refurbishment is a thorough inspection. This is where the professionals take a close look at your wheels to assess the damage. They’ll check for scratches, dents, and any structural issues. If the damage is too severe, some wheels might be beyond repair, but usually, most issues can be fixed.
Once the inspection is complete, it’s time to prep the wheels. This involves removing the wheels from the car and taking off the tires. The wheels are then cleaned to get rid of any dirt, grime, or old paint.
Repairing the Damage
With the wheels cleaned and prepped, the next step is to repair any damage. For minor scratches and scuffs, sanding is usually sufficient. This smooths out the surface and gets it ready for painting. For deeper scratches and dents, a process called welding might be used. Welding involves filling in the damaged areas with a special material, which is then sanded down to create a smooth surface.
If your wheels have suffered from curb rash, this is the time when it’s fixed. The technicians will carefully sand down the edges to remove any rough spots and restore the original shape of the wheel. This part of the process requires a lot of skill and precision to ensure the wheel looks as good as new.
This is why it is advised to seek professionals if there are any issues (If you live near London, undertake a search for “Alloy Refurbishment Swindon” – Neutron Alloys is one of the best refurb companies on a national level). The process can require specialist equipment and in-depth expertise, depending on the level of refurbishment needed.
Priming and Painting
Once the repairs are done, it’s time to prime and paint the wheels. Priming is essential because it helps the paint adhere to the surface and provides an even base for the colour. After the primer is applied and dried, the wheels are ready for painting.
Painting alloy wheels is an art in itself. The paint is usually applied in several thin layers to ensure a smooth and durable finish. After the final coat of paint is applied, the wheels are usually sealed with a clear coat to protect the paint and add a shiny finish.
With the painting done, the wheels need to cure. This usually involves baking the wheels in a special oven to harden the paint and ensure a durable finish.
Reinstallation and Final Touches
The last step in the alloy refurbishment process is reinstallation. The refurbished wheels are carefully put back on your car, and the tires are inflated to the correct pressure. The technicians will also check the balance of the wheels to make sure everything is in perfect alignment.
Before handing your car back to you, they’ll give the wheels one last clean and polish. This final touch ensures that your wheels look as good as they perform. And there you have it – your alloy wheels are refurbished and ready to hit the road.
Conclusion
We hope we have given you a better understanding of the alloy refurbishment process. Understanding the alloy refurbishment process can give you a greater appreciation for the skill and effort that goes into making your wheels look brand new again.
From the initial inspection to the final touches, each step is essential to ensure a high-quality finish. So next time your alloy wheels need some attention, you’ll know exactly what to expect.
