Painting chrome wheels

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(Original page was a posted question. Reformated to wiki style with common topics and added info from research)
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I have a set of Chrome Wheels that I want to Paint to match my Vehicle.
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=Preparation Work=
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When refinishing wheels, painting is commonly known as the least long term solution. In regards to painting chrome wheels, the biggest hurdle to overcome is painting over the chrome itself. As chrome is a very hard protective finish it is difficult to remove.  
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I am unsure if I should use an etching primer or epoxy before a urethane primer. What proceedure would anyone recommend?
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==Electrolysis==
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In the case of a quality OEM plating, the most thorough method requires removal via electrolysis. It is known to produce harmful byproducts. Because of this, finding a shop to do this work for you can be difficult.
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I was going to try teh following:
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===Under Chrome===
- scuff chrome with 120-180 grit sanding sponge
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Chrome generally not the only metal plated to a wheel during the plating process. Often there are layers of copper and nickel underneath that will have to removed via electrolysis as well to get down to the base metal.
- etch prime (Varaprime 615S)- 1 coat
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- urathane prime (PPG k36)- 2 coats
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- sand 600grit
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- basecoat (PPG Evirobase HP) - 3 coats
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- Clearcoat (PPG DC3000 or Dc4000) 2-3 coats
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Any thoughts on my procedure?  What if I need to use of polyfill (or other)... will this cause a problem if I apply an etching over it.
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==Chemical Bath==
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As well electrolysis, it has been noted that it is possible to simply soak the wheel in a acid bath to remove chrome. The benefits are less chance of harmful chemical byproducts.
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===Common Chemicals===
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*Hydrochloric Acid
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*Muriatic Acid
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*Pickle2
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*Caswell Anodize and Chrome stripper solution
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==Abrasives==
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Another option is to use an abrasive to texture the chrome so that paint has a higher chance of adhering to it. This is often the most common procedure done by the shade tree mechanic as it is simple and the least hazardous method.
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===Common Abrasive Medias===
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*Sandpaper
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*Media Blasting
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*Wire Wheel
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[[Category:Body and exterior]]
 
[[Category:Body and exterior]]
 
[[Category:Wheels]]
 
[[Category:Wheels]]
 
[[Category:Undeveloped articles]]
 
[[Category:Undeveloped articles]]

Revision as of 14:03, 19 March 2012

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