On 3/28/06, dylan friedman <insyncro@yahoo.com> wrote:
> looking for some pointers on preping alloys wheels to be repainted.
> do you sand them?
> i will be using a self etching primer and wheel paint, both SEM or DupliColor products, don't remember off hand.
> i would have them powder coated, but they are not perfect, just want them looking better.
>
> TIA.
>
> dylan

I find the easiest way to clean is with a beadblaster. Do not use sand
as they have a tendency to work their way into the aluminum. I have
succesfully cleaned rims by putting them on a hub affixed to a motor.
Kind of like a roullete wheel. I put the sanding medium on one edge
and work it like a potters wheel. Come to think of it, an old potter's
wheel would make a perfect fixture for spin sanding the edges. It's
not as good as machining but they should be good enough for daily
driiver wheels.

BenT