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View Full Version : Coated aluminum wheels question?



imported_doug
10-15-2001, 12:13 PM
Hi, Guys - I know I`m still new to the board, but some of you already know I`ve been very interested in testing detailing products (paint care only). After reading so many false advertiser claims and users` unsubstantiated opinions, I`ve gotten even more interested in testing methods. How can we compare one product to another in a truly objective way?

I believe I have found the answer. There are standards (ASTM, ISO) for measuring gloss, and there are laboratory instruments for taking the measurements.

For a brief intro to the methods used, check out http://www.rhopoint.co.uk/instruments/ng-art.html (`http://www.rhopoint.co.uk/instruments/ng-art.html`)

I`ve looked into these meters - but they aren`t cheap - the "Novo-Gloss" meters start at about $2100. So - I`m looking for creative ways to solve this problem:

1) Anybody know of a company that might rent lab instruments?

2) Anybody know of trade associations or other places where these products might come up for sale used?

3) Anybody want to write me a check for $2K in exchange for my undying appreciation? :)

These meters would truly allow us to share information in a standard way. This would be a big improvement over merely expressing opinions! I should also add that even these meters aren`t a total solution. Some of you have noted one wax makes a finish look "sharper" than another, or one glaze adds more "depth". The definitions of these terms are vague, but i believe we do see differences. It is not clear, however that any meter can measure these effects. Still, I think we would learn a lot. Open to ideas (and contributions!)

Bluedog
10-15-2001, 04:56 PM
man thats some crazy dedication (or jsut craziness) man:D i can start on a turbo with that money... well i definintley dunno where to get or rent lab stuff nor do i have the expense to donate;)



but good luck with getting this thing. it can seriously REALLY help alot once used properly with tests

YoSteve
10-19-2001, 05:15 PM
I have access to a gloss meter. Feel free to cut a big panel off your car and send it to me so I can test it. Or you can just fedex the whole car ;)

ISLANDSBEST
10-20-2001, 01:00 AM
Steve, LOL



Carguy, you make a good point, though. The meter adds an important, non-subjective measure, though, as you point out, there are some things the meter does not measure.

imported_Goose
03-09-2010, 02:13 AM
I have this Porsche from a customer that wants me to "polish" his wheels.
Upon closer inspection, the clear has started to yellow and peel off.
I advised him the clear has to come off and repolish the alumium.

My question is what to use to safely remove the remaining clear?
Has anybody done this?
What`s the easiest way to do this, products to use, etc...

TIA,
~Goose.

PS: I`ll post some pics tomorrow...

imported_Jokeman
03-09-2010, 07:44 AM
Take the wheels off the car, take the tires off the wheels, then use aircraft stripper. Not a fun task at all.

Harleyguy
03-09-2010, 09:06 AM
Another way is too have them soda blasted also alot of work but the end result is awesome.

imported_Jokeman
03-09-2010, 09:39 AM
Another way is too have them soda blasted also alot of work but the end result is awesome.

Only issue with soda blasting them is that it dulls/pits the finish. Either way you have to polish them out.

imported_Goose
03-09-2010, 10:25 AM
I thought I`ve heard of another method(s).
I can`t remember what that was.
Thanks guys. I will look at the options I`ve got...

michakaveli
03-09-2010, 02:42 PM
Media Blasting with glass and/or crushed walnut shells. Was just looking into this recently.

imported_Goose
03-09-2010, 11:58 PM
These are the wheels I`m talking about...

http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g93/Z06-Goose/Details/Details/MrLewis036.jpg
http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g93/Z06-Goose/Details/Details/MrLewis041.jpg
http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g93/Z06-Goose/Details/Details/MrLewis044.jpg

imported_Luster
03-10-2010, 08:03 AM
I`ve used aircraft stripper. It does work well, but it`s very strong stuff. You have to wear rubber gloves and be careful not to get any on your skin.

You don`t really have to dismount the tires if you`re careful not to get any on the rubber. I masked off the tires with some real sticky tape. the aircraft stripper sprays on and, in my case, didn`t hurt the aluminum at all, but you may want to do a test patch on the back of the wheel.

Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then you can rinse with a hose, while agitating with a soft brush.

I did a set of C5 Corvette wheels and they came out great.... Again, use with caution.