Plasti Dip Car Wheels – complete process- supplies needed – precautions – life – durability – pros and cons – top gear – Types
Plasti Dip is a rubber coating that can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including car wheels, to provide a protective layer and change the appearance. It is a popular DIY solution for car enthusiasts who want to change the look of their wheels without spending a lot of money on new rims or expensive coatings.
The complete process to Plasti Dip car wheels typically involves the following steps:
Preparation
This involves cleaning the wheels thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or debris. You can use soap and water or a specialized wheel cleaner to ensure that the surface is clean and dry. It is essential to remove any brake dust or other contaminants that may interfere with the adhesion of the Plasti Dip.
Masking
The next step is to mask off any areas that you don’t want to be coated, such as the tire sidewall and the valve stem. You can use painter’s tape or masking tape to cover these areas.
Application
Once the wheels are clean and masked, you can start applying the Plasti Dip. The product comes in aerosol cans, and you can choose from a variety of colors. Shake the can thoroughly before spraying and hold it about 6-8 inches away from the wheel surface. Apply a light, even coat, and let it dry for about 15-20 minutes before applying another coat. It is recommended to apply 4-5 coats for best results.
Drying
After the final coat is applied, allow the Plasti Dip to dry for at least 4 hours. This will ensure that the coating is fully cured and can be touched without leaving fingerprints.
Removal of masking tape
Once the Plasti Dip is dry, remove the masking tape from the areas you covered earlier.
Finishing touches
If desired, you can apply a glossier or a matte finisher to the Plasti Dip to enhance the appearance and provide extra protection.
Supplies Needed to Plasti Dip Car Wheels
- Plasti Dip aerosol can
- Painter’s tape or masking tape
- Soap and water or specialized wheel cleaner
- Microfiber towels
- Gloves (optional)
- Glossier or matte finisher (optional)
Types of Plasti Dip
There are several types of Plasti Dip available, each designed for specific applications. Here are some of the most common types:
- Aerosol Spray: This is the most common type of Plasti Dip and is designed for use on small to medium-sized objects. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes, including gloss, matte, and metallic.
- Plasti Dip Sprayable: This type of Plasti Dip is designed for use with a spray gun and can be used on larger surfaces such as car bodies or boats.
- Plasti Dip Liquid: This type of Plasti Dip is a brush-on formula that is ideal for smaller objects or for touch-ups on larger projects.
- Plasti Dip Primer: This is a specially formulated primer that helps to improve adhesion and durability of Plasti Dip when applied to certain surfaces.
- Plasti Dip Clear Coat: This type of Plasti Dip is a clear coat finish that can be used to protect and enhance the appearance of Plasti Dip on car wheels or other objects.
- Plasti Dip Glossifier: This is a topcoat finish that can be used to add shine and gloss to Plasti Dip finishes.
- Plasti Dip Enhancers: These are special additives that can be added to Plasti Dip to create unique effects, such as glow-in-the-dark or color-shifting finishes.
Plasti Dip Colors
Colors available for Plasti Dip include:
- Black
- White
- Gray
- Red
- Blue
- Green
- Yellow
- Orange & many more
Plasti Dip also offers a range of metallic and pearlescent finishes for a unique look.
Overall, Plasti Dip is a cost-effective and easy-to-use solution for changing the appearance of car wheels. With the right supplies and techniques, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will protect your wheels and make them stand out on the road.
Precautions
When working with Plasti Dip, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and achieve the best results. Here are some precautions to keep in mind:
- Use in a well-ventilated area: Plasti Dip contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be harmful if inhaled in large amounts. It is important to use the product in a well-ventilated area, such as outdoors or in a garage with the doors open.
- Wear protective gear: To prevent skin and eye irritation, it is recommended to wear gloves and safety glasses while working with Plasti Dip.
- Shake the can thoroughly: Before spraying, be sure to shake the can thoroughly for at least a minute to ensure that the product is properly mixed.
- Test on a small area first: Before applying Plasti Dip to the entire wheel, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the color and finish are what you want.
- Apply in thin coats: It is better to apply several thin coats of Plasti Dip than one thick coat, as this will help to achieve a more even finish.
- Allow sufficient drying time: Be patient and allow sufficient drying time between coats and after the final coat to ensure that the Plasti Dip is fully cured and does not smudge or peel.
By following these precautions, you can achieve a successful Plasti Dip application and ensure your safety while doing so.
Life of Plasti Dip Wheels
The life of Plasti Dip can vary depending on various factors such as the conditions in which it is applied, the number of coats applied, and the level of wear and tear to which it is subjected. Generally speaking, Plasti Dip can last anywhere from 1 to 3 years or more, depending on these factors.
If the Plasti Dip is applied properly and in the recommended number of coats, it can provide a durable protective layer that can withstand exposure to the elements, including UV rays, water, and other environmental factors. However, if the Plasti Dip is exposed to harsh conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, or if it is scratched or chipped, it may not last as long.
Additionally, how long Plasti Dip lasts on car wheels can depend on the amount of driving done and the type of driving. Frequent driving on rough or uneven surfaces, for example, can cause more wear and tear to the coating, leading to a shorter life.
Overall, the life of Plasti Dip can vary, but with proper application and care, it can provide a cost-effective and durable solution for changing the appearance of car wheels while providing protection against the elements.
Benefits of Plasti Dip Wheels
- Cost-effective: Plasti Dip is a cost-effective way to change the appearance of car wheels without the expense of purchasing new rims or expensive coatings.
- Easy to apply: Plasti Dip can be applied easily with an aerosol can and does not require any specialized tools or equipment.
- Reversible: Unlike permanent coatings or finishes, Plasti Dip can be easily removed if desired, allowing you to revert back to the original appearance of the wheels.
- Protective: Plasti Dip provides a protective layer that can help to prevent damage to the wheels from exposure to the elements, including UV rays, water, and road debris.
- Customizable: Plasti Dip comes in a variety of colors and finishes, making it a versatile solution for creating a customized look for your car.
Disadvantages of Plastic Dip Wheels
- Limited lifespan: Plasti Dip may not last as long as permanent coatings or finishes and may require reapplication after a certain amount of time.
- Vulnerable to damage: While Plasti Dip can provide some protection against damage, it is not as durable as some other coatings or finishes and can be vulnerable to chipping, peeling, or scratching.
- Limited repair options: If the Plasti Dip is damaged, it can be difficult to repair, and it may require reapplication of the entire coating.
- May require maintenance: Depending on the conditions in which the Plasti Dip is applied and the amount of wear and tear it is subjected to, it may require periodic touch-ups or maintenance.
- Application challenges: Plasti Dip can be difficult to apply evenly and may require some practice to achieve a professional-looking finish.
Overall, Plasti Dip can be a cost-effective and versatile solution for changing the appearance of car wheels, but it also has its limitations and may require some maintenance and care to ensure that it lasts as long as possible.