Guys i was wondering if there was an easier way to paint the rims without powdercoating them? i want to do it the right way but cant have the truck down for too long thanks

 

I have painted the rims on my Ford Ranger. I used flat black spray paint from the local hardware store. I took the wheels off cleaned them and then scratched them up with fine steel wool. I put tape around the tire since I didn't want paint on them. I put 5 coats on the outside and 1 coat on the inside. I did them about 6 years ago and they are still holding up fine. That is with a lot of off-road use as well. They could use a little touch up right now from where the weights were changed and a few pits here and there. Can't tell until your a few inches away. The whole thing took me about 3 hours and 5 cans of spray paint.

 

Sure. Use a quality paint. Surface prep is the key. They can't be too clean. Like travis said, after they're really clean, sand them a little with some 1000grit paper or steel wool so the paint will have something to grip.

Do it on a warm day, but in the shade.

Try not to drive the truck for at least 12 hours or so (depending on the paint you use). You don't want any scratches or road grime to get on the paint until it's cured really well.

 

Use an enamel paint, it'll hold up better during winter months. I've used everguard brand enamel, it's like an industrial paint. When it cures, it's almost like powdercoat. I have it on my racecar chassis and still holding up for almost 4 yrs., especially by my tires.

 

I've painted motorcycle wheels with a base/clear combo. If i were to paint any that'd be the way I'd go.