Re: Paint or Powder Coat Rims?

Posted by Rusty O\'Toole On 2010/2/26 20:29:43

Cli55er you may be a little misinformed. Acrylic paints, lacquer and enamel, became available in about 1955. From that time on factory applied paints were nearly as durable as today's in some cases more durable.

The base clear is mainly an appearance advantage. It was first used on luxury models.

A straight paint job will not look as glossy as a base clear job but will look good if clean and waxed.

Car makers recommended waxing the finish every 6 months for best appearance, and to protect it. If this was done the finish would last indefinitely.

If not maintained the paint would get dull and wear out after 10 or 20 years.

This is considerably longer than a base clear will last. I have seen them peeling and looking like hell after 5 to 7 years if left outside and not waxed. The old straight enamel or lacquer, under similar circumstances, would be dull but not peeling and would shine right up if washed and polished.