Painting alloy wheels

[Petrolhead]

I am currently refurbishing my 17" alloys.

I have prepared the wheels and would just like some advise on what primer I should use.

I have heard good reviews on the Upol products. There are two, and this is where I need some advice.

There is the etch primer and there is high build primer. Which should I use?

[jagnet]

Both Etch primer first on any bare metal, then high build primer to give you something to sand back.

I do like the Upol products for diy wheel refurbs at home.

[Depthhoar]

jagnet said:

Both Etch primer first on any bare metal, then high build primer to give you something to sand back.

I do like the Upol products for diy wheel refurbs at home.

This.

Used Upol rattlecan products on refurbing alloys and they worked well. There's a better quality lacquer in their range and that's the only thing I would upgrade to if I were to do the job again.

Also, get a very good quality face mask that filters out organic vapours etc. - you'll definitely need it.

[Petrolhead]

jagnet said:

Both Etch primer first on any bare metal, then high build primer to give you something to sand back.

I do like the Upol products for diy wheel refurbs at home.

So only etch on bare metal and not the sanded finish

[jagnet]

I try to stick to just the bare metal as much to avoid wasting product as anything, although there'll be some overlap anyway. I haven't noticed any problems with the etch primer failing to adhere to painted surfaces.

Upol also do the Grip#4 adhesion promoter which may be a better solution if you have a very patchy surface with mixed finishes to prime.

[Petrolhead]

Many thanks, will get both products then

Out of interest which laquer would you recommend? I fancy either a matt or satin finish

The wheels are for my winter tyres so I assure you we will not get any snow now

[jagnet]

I do like the Upol #1 Clear, but that's a high gloss clear coat.

Incidentally, to help protect the back of the alloys I give them a light coat of Bilt Hamber Dynax-UC- pretty well invisible by the time the wheels are on the car and gives a really tough anti corrosion finish.