How to Repaint Rims and Tires From the Factory?

Answer 1

Just because there is not $5000 in the bank account for new rims, does not mean the factory rims and tires cannot be given a complete makeover. Factory rims can be painted with a few supplies from a home improvement and grocery store. The time it takes is a bit longer than picking out the new rims and tires, but the cost is far less at about $25 for the entire project.

Things to Buy to Repaint Factory Rims

Brill-O pads, degreaser, dish detergent, soft clothes, masking tape, newspapers, high heat spray paint and high heat clear paint are needed to paint factory rims.

Step 1 – Scour the rims with a Brill-O pad. This removes all baked on dirt and grime and scuffs up the surface of the rim for painting. Make sure not to scour tires in the process.

Step 2 – Wash rims and tires with dish detergent. Dish detergent is a degreaser. After lathering and rinsing once, repeat two more times to completely remove all dirt and road grease. Dry the rims and tires with a soft cloth and allow to sit on newspaper for 24 hours to dry thoroughly.

Step 3 – Tape off the rims and tires. Place newspapers on the tires and tape in place where the rims and tires meet.

Step 4 – Apply the first coat of paint to rims. Using a sweeping motion, apply the first layer of paint to rims. Allow 10 minutes between each coat. It could take three to four coats to cover rims completely.

Step 5 – Apply a protective coat of clear high heat spray paint. After all coats of color are applied, spray two to three coats of clear high heat spray. These coats should be applied with a 10 minute wait between coats, as well.

Step 6 – Remove the masking tape and newspaper. About 15 minutes after the final coat of clear high heat spray, remove the masking tape slowly. If the clear coat is allowed to dry completely before masking tape is removed from rims and tires the paint could rip off the factory rims.

Step 7 – Allow rims and tires to dry for 48 hours. The final coat needs to be 100% dry before affixing tires on the car or truck. To be safe, allow two days for drying. If the rims and tires must be placed on the car before the two day drying period is complete, dirt and debris could get caught in the tacky clear coat.