What to Look for in Quality Wheel Repair
Straight, Round, and True
Potholes, speed bumps, and even underinflated tires can cause a wheel to go out of true. Even the slightest bend in a wheel can cause uncomfortable vibrations that can be felt in the steering wheel or seat. Slight bends may also cause premature/ uneven tire wear, frequent air loss, which ultimately compounds the problem. Utimately, these problems can lead to suspension and alignment problems.
Proper wheel repair should first ensure that the wheel is perfectly straight, round and true. There should not be any hammer marks or abraisions on any interior or exterior surface from attempts to correct the problem.
Clean edges, Consistent Machining
Poor attempts at wheel repair can leave wavy edges and an inconsistencies in machined finishes. Not only will these inconsistencies detract from the appearance of the wheel, they can impact balance and the integrity of the wheel.
Free From Cracks, Scratches, or Gouges
Surface scratches, gouges and cracks can occur from poor road conditions or other damage. Left uncorrected, these flaws not only detract from your wheel's appearance; but that can also hold particles that could potentially corrode metal and gradually impact wheel integrity. Even under close examination, the wheel finish should be smooth and consistent.
Finishes
Ensure that machining and paint finishes are consistent and smooth. Paint should be free from ripples and should be built up from several layers and colors to match original, factory finishes and existing, undamaged wheels. Incorrect finishing techniques may look good at first, but will rapidly fade, peel, or chip; leaving metal exposed to corrosion.
It is important that if a wheel is to be repainted, all layers of paint should be removed to the bare metal and the surface should be properly prepared for repainting. Processes that miss these important steps may not be obvious to an untrained eye at first, but will routinely lead to flaking, cracking, and other finish problems.
Click here to learn about Wheelcrafters proprietary wheel repair process