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There’s no doubt that alloy wheels can be a fantastic choice for any car owner out there who is looking to decrease the overall weight of his/her vehicle, and increase the strength of the wheels while also enjoying endless modification choices. However, you must remember that when you’re investing in alloy wheels, you’re also tasked with the responsibility of properly caring for them and maintaining them.
Therefore, in this comprehensive guide, we’ll be discussing the various ways you can properly take care of your alloy wheels so that you can expect them to last a long time.
Tips To Follow For Properly Taking Care & Maintaining Your Alloy Wheels
- Know The Specifications
According to a reputable panel beater in Melbourne, the primary step in maintaining your alloy wheels is to know their specifications. By knowing specifications, you can easily find the correct repair tools, replacements or equipment, in case any problem arises.
The main alloy wheel specifications that you should learn about are:
- Wheel Rim Width
- Wheel Diameter
- Wheel Centre Bore
- Wheel Offset
- Protecting The Wheels From Corrosion
Generally, alloy wheels don’t rust. This is because alloy wheels mostly contain aluminium and the wheels are protected by an oxide layer as well. Thus, rusting is non-existent in alloy wheels when compared to steel wheels. However, your alloy wheels can experience corrosion, especially if the wheels get scratched.
It should be known a scratch on your alloy wheel surface will expose the inner layers below the protective layer, leading to the formation of white patches of corrosion. In such cases, you need to use alloy-safe rust removers along with the appropriate brushes for scrubbing, so that you can effectively eliminate corrosion from your beautiful alloy wheels.
- Repairing Cracks
You must learn that a crack in your alloy wheel can be repaired via the process of welding. However, the process of welding should only be carried out by a professional. Multiple factors need to be considered when an alloy wheel is cracked and requires repairs, including:
- Location of the crack
- Size of the crack
- The direction of the crack
- Condition of the alloy wheel
The above-mentioned factors will determine whether a crack in an alloy wheel can be repaired. In case the wheel cannot be repaired, then a replacement is advised.
- Straightening Bent Wheels
Like repairs, bent alloy wheels can also be straightened by professionals. Straightening should be done when you’re facing:
- Shaking when you’re driving your vehicle
- Poor handling and steering controls
- Tyres losing air pressure constantly
In any of the aforementioned cases, your alloy wheels might be bent out of shape, which can happen due to driving on poor road surfaces. By straightening your alloy wheels, you’ll be able to avoid replacing the same.
- Cleaning
Once the specifications of your alloy wheels are known to you and thereby can maintain them based on the previously mentioned suggestions, then it’s time that you look into cleaning the same too. Cleaning your alloy wheels regularly can enhance their aesthetic appearance and keep them looking new. You can utilise over-the-counter or store-bought alloy cleaners for cleaning your alloy wheels in the best possible manner.
If you need more recommendations on the care & maintenance protocols for alloy wheels, be sure to let us know.
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