Magnesium wheels- painting tips?

db · Post by db » Thu Jul 10, 08 5:38 pm

Don't get too excited Blue- just motorbike race wheels!

What i do know is that they corrode as soon as look at 'em, what i don't know is the best way to prevent it

Do i need any special primer?

I've stripped to bare metal and they're tucked away in the house so no white powder yet....

I want a satin finish so will 2 pack black with a matt laquer be best?

Blue · Post by **Blue** » Thu Jul 10, 08 6:47 pm

I would have thought powder coating them would be your best bet.

db · Post by db » Thu Jul 10, 08 8:23 pm

Tried that with another pair of these Blue, they came out really bad.

Apparently when they're heated to melt the powder, gas comes off the mag making the coating bubble (it may have just been a poor job o'course...

).

Also it's a bitch to get off if you change your mind!

Ivor · Post by **Ivor** » Fri Jul 11, 08 9:59 am

I would suggest prepping the wheels to the standard of finish required, I would use grey Scotchbrite.

Then have everything ready for a high speed "wet on wet" paint job with everything standing by ready to paint.

Throughly clean the wheels with panel cleaner or spirit wipe using two lint free cloths, one to wipe on and one to wipe off immediately.

Apply an etch primer (I would go for a two pack epoxy etch primer, but you need to apply the next coat within 2 hours or you'll have to sand it again)

I've applied colour straight on the top, but you can apply a wet on wet (non sand) primer and then top coat, it's up to you.

Use two pack materials and it should be as tough as old boots and won't fall off!