Yes, you can chrome stock (original equipment) wheels, but it involves a specific process.
Chroming stock wheels is a multi-step process that transforms the original finish into a shiny, chrome appearance. Here's a breakdown:
- Stripping: The original finish (paint, powder coat, etc.) is removed from the wheel, exposing the bare aluminum underneath.
- Polishing: The bare aluminum is meticulously polished by hand to eliminate any imperfections, scratches, or blemishes. This ensures a smooth surface for the chroming process.
- Nickel Plating: A nickel plating bath is applied. This nickel layer is crucial as it provides a strong, corrosion-resistant base for the chrome.
- Copper Plating: Copper plating is applied after nickel plating to provide a smooth surface for the subsequent chrome plating.
- Chrome Plating: The wheel undergoes the chroming process, where a thin layer of chromium is electroplated onto the nickel (and copper) plating. This is what gives the wheel its shiny, reflective chrome finish.
- Final Polishing (Optional): A final polishing may be done to enhance the shine and remove any imperfections in the chrome finish.
Important Considerations:
- Cost: Chroming wheels can be more expensive than other wheel finishing options like powder coating or painting due to the labor-intensive process.
- Wheel Material: Most stock wheels are made of aluminum alloy, which is suitable for chroming.
- Wheel Condition: The condition of the wheels before chroming significantly impacts the final result. Severely damaged or corroded wheels may require extensive repairs before chroming, adding to the cost.
- Professional Expertise: Chroming is a specialized process that requires experienced professionals and proper equipment. It is best to have it done by a reputable wheel refinishing company.
