Project 1 from Injected65 : Wheel Repair

[Injected65]

I bought a 99 Mustang GT a while back and it came with a set of 18" Saleen wheels that had been curb rash'd nearly to death. All 4 wheels had damage. The wheels are pretty good looking and worth decent money so I decided to fix them.
I had them blasted and then tigged up the rash. Next up is to take them to work and run them through the lathe to recut the lips and then powdercoat them.





I'll throw up some updated, "fixed" pictures as soon as I can get them coated.

Thanks,
Chris

[performance]

Please follow up and let us see the results. Thanks for following the form we requested.

[ScratchStart]

Is that an alloy wheel? or all aluminum? What kind of filler did you use?

They are good looking. I think you should CHROME them... but I am a pretty simple guy, and like shiny things...LOL

[Jason]

I am interested in what type of wheel and filler also. I have a wheel that was bent on both inner and outer lips and I want to get straightened but there is the risk of them cracking and then I would be able to weld it and then take it back to be finished at the wheel place. I have had them straighten a wheel I purchased bent before and he does a very good job but he does not weld and it costs more if it needs it as he takes it to another company. He did not crack my wheel but there is always the risk.

[sportbike]

Is that an alloy wheel? or all aluminum? What kind of filler did you use?

They are good looking. I think you should CHROME them... but I am a pretty simple guy, and like shiny things...LOL

The wheel is definitely an "alloy" wheel. Pretty much nothing is made of pure aluminum as it is extremely soft and has almost no structural use at all. There are filler alloys specifically made for casting repair, but alot of people use the standard's; 4043 or 5356.

If the wheel is cast (which this one most likely is), you will likely still retain most of the strength. If it is forged or billet, the strength will go to crap if you weld it. Doesn't mean it won't work, but it will not be nearly as strong in the welded and heat affected zone.

[Injected65]

It is a standard cast aluminum wheel. I used 4043 filler for the repair. The rash was only about .125" deep in the worst spots. I added a good bit of filler so when I turn the lips down I wont have any low spots pop up.

[SeanMurphy265]

I've been interested in wheel repair, but a little to scared; some of those wheels cost some major$$$ Will you be able to tell the wheel has been repaired when it's done?

[Injected65]

I hope you wont be able to tell, but well have to see I guess. Its the first time i've ever attempted this type repair before.