2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Anyone know how to strip clearcoat off factory alloys?

[Signal73]

Im looking to refurbish/refinish a set of factory alloy's I picked up. Would like to *attempt* to do it myself. Any tips on the stripping/polishing/re-clearcoating them? Products used, Tips to make it go easy, Links to other possible threads on the subject I couldnt find

Thanks, Jim

 

[MrDiesel]

I've used aircraft aluminum stripper, it's available at any paint or auto store in spray or brush on. Takes multiple applications, but cleans up w/ water. Bead or baking soada blast would be cool if it's available and you can afford it. To polish just get a good buffing wheel and some Mothers. I personally would not clear coat them b/c if it peels again your stuck. At least if you don't coat them you can always re-polish. If you do decide you want clear powder-coat is the ONLY thing that will stand up to the abuse rims get...

 

[moparmikeJ]

I had an '87 Dakota with nasty aluminum rims and I used plain old paint stripper on the clear and brought the rims to work to glass bead 'em in our cabinet. Looked real nice! When they started to get a little dark and dirty, just cleaned 'em with the wheel cleaner that is for the "as cast" wheels. (The stuff that contains acid," etching wheel cleaner"). In fact, I cleaned my non clear-coated Mopar daimond plate running boards with it this spring. Came out great! Mike

 

[Signal73]

Well I ended up using Home Depot paint stripper and they came out great. Down to the metal and they are real clean looking. Will buff them out with some mothers wheel cleaner after the tires get mounted.

 

[MrDiesel]

If you want them to look factory that will work great. If you want them to really shine like a polished wheel you need to yse a cotton style buff and something with some more cut to it like their actual aluminum rim polish. If the metal wasn't all corroded and banged up you may just want to use the cleaner. If you decide to polish do it before tires are mounted b/c the polish will leave white residue on the rubber if you get to carried away.