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Ernest's avatar
Ernest
Explorer
Aug 15, 2017

Polishing ALCOA Aluminun Rims

Polishing my ALCOA rims has always been a hard task. Over 17 years I've gone from a couple times a year to...missed a year or two. The shoulders are not what they used to be and the less often you do them they harder they get; at least in my case.

I decided I break down and pay someone to do it. Well you know it's a hard job when you can't find anybody in eastern PA. Truck Dealers, Detail shops, etc.

Last but not least I asked a friend who's mod'ed some custom Trucks who did his chrome and aluminum polishing. I assumed he'd say a guy in his shop and then I'd ask the favor of seeing if I can pay that guy to do mine.

He said he used Zimmerman Carriers in Ephrata PA. I called them and sure enough they have a machine and a process that can't be beat.
Takes about 1.5 hrs./wheel and they look better than new.

They take appointments. I was there at 7:30 am and was out the door a 2pm. Great people! I can't say enough good about them.

If you're in the Lancaster PA area I would stop by and let them do it while you're visiting other attractions in the area.

12 Replies

  • The trick to keeping the freshly polished aluminum bright is to seal it from the air. The O2 attacks the clean surface very quickly dulling it out. You can wax it with a good carnuba wax, treat it with a polymer film, anodize it, powder coat it, or you can spray it with a clear coat then wax it. Check with a good automotive paint supply shop for a choice of products. Many wheel alloy repair shops can work wonders with what many think is ready for the scrap bin.

    Chum lee