Customise Your Ride With Chrome Rims

Customising your ride may start with a new paint job and modding the specs but it won't be complete without a set of shiny chrome rims! Most rims are made from an aluminium and magnesium alloy which is strong but light, but other alloys are also used. The width of rims varies from very narrow for bikes and motorcycles to very wide for large trucks. The width of the rim influences the comfort of the ride as wider rims, although more stable produce more vibration. Less stable narrower rims lead to poorer handling.

Chrome rims, although they have no practical purpose are still much sought after. They enhance the look of the vehicle in a way that no other part can. Some people do prefer the look of rims painted to match the vehicle but the majority like the shiny, flashy look of chrome plated rims. Other parts of the vehicle also benefit from the decorative effects of chrome plating, bumpers, mirrors and exhausts for instance. as the shiny surface, especially when reflecting sunlight or other bright lights is indeed aesthetically pleasing. Chrome rims have been highly sought after and made popular by celebrities and artists who can afford the often hefty price tag that a full set of top of the range chrome rims comes with. Some chrome rims have been sold for as much as $2000 per rim!

Steel and aluminium alloy is usually used for the best rims being superior to steel alone. This alloy is stronger and lighter which gives better vehicle performance. Aluminium is a lighter metal than steel and used as an alloy the lighter rims give improved steering ability of the vehicle. It is possible to get a similar look for less cost by using a steel wheel painted to give a silvery finish but chrome plated rims will keep their looks and last much longer. The electroplating process is much more involved and costly than simply painting a steel wheel hence the higher cost of the finished chrome rim.

Caring for Your Alloy Rims

Chrome alloy rims can be easily cared for by shampooing with a mild car shampoo and rinsing off carefully. Dry with a soft cloth so as not to scratch the chrome finish. If the rims are still dirty use a specially made chrome cleaner. Other types of cleaners should not be used as they can easily cause damage. Once dry it is a good idea to smear a very thin layer of car wax on the chrome. This will collect dust and other debris which will be easily removed later without damage to the chrome. You should also use a protective coat of wax on other chrome car parts too.

Try not to use automatic car washes as the harsh detergents used will lead to damage to the chrome and the mechanical action can also lead to scratches. Never use cleaners not specifically made for chrome on your rims as they often contain acid which can damage the finish and dull the chrome.