Can someone help me figure out my wheels?

B

backwoods_lex

New member
Somewhere along the way of learning the wonderful world of detailing I managed to use a strong wheels cleaner on my wheels while they were hot from driving (at least that's what I'm guessing--I'm a little perplexed how they got to the state they are in).



Here's what the wheels looks like (not an actual picture--just pulled a pic from ebay):



99d4_1.JPG




The problem is that the "aluminum" face is weathered, dull, and streaky with lines. The other problem is that I'm not sure if it is clear coated or not. I've tried aluminum polish before and it didn't seem to leave any gray/black residue on the rag. I've tried polish and compound by hand and machine with no results. I even tried a heavy do or die (meaning a good bit of pressure) wetsand with 2000 grit and OHC via rotary with no results. I'm perplexed (and figures--it had to be the set of wheels that are on my car).



Anyone have experience with this specific wheel (or other lexus wheels that are designed in a similiar way with the aluminum face)? I know that the arched areas outside of the spoke are actually base/clear coat.



Thanks guys!
 
Noting that I know nothing about Lexus wheels...



IMO you're SOL as far as being able to DIY them. Whether the wheels are cleared or otherwise coated or... whatever, once you get that cloudy appearance you have to have 'em professionally refinished.



The "machined" finish wheels on my wife's A8 are like that...I dunno how they're finished but scratches do *not* buff out and when the finish goes bad it's off to the wheel refinishers (even my Audi dealer's bodyshop can't refinish those and they have done other wheels for me with great results).



FWIW, the last time I got an estimate (for a friend's BBS style wheels), the cost to refinish all four was $650.
 
Thanks for the reply accumulator:bigups. Professional refinishing won't be possible since M105 is currently out of my price range. I guess it will be a DIY base/clear repaint in the future.
 
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