DIY Guide: Transform Your Wheels with Plasti Dip – A Comprehensive Tutorial

Want to give your car a fresh, new look without breaking the bank? Plasti Dip is your answer! This incredibly versatile product allows you to easily and affordably change the color of your rims, adding a touch of personalization and style. Best of all, it’s temporary, meaning you can switch things up whenever you like. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you achieve a professional-looking finish right in your own garage. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a complete beginner, this detailed tutorial will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to transform your wheels with Plasti Dip.

Why Choose Plasti Dip for Your Rims?

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s quickly explore why Plasti Dip is such a popular choice for rim customization:

• Affordability: Compared to professional painting or powder coating, Plasti Dip is a significantly cheaper option.
• Ease of Application: The process is relatively simple and doesn’t require specialized tools or extensive experience.
• Removable: Plasti Dip is essentially a rubber coating that can be peeled off when you want to revert to the original look or change colors.
• Protection: It provides a protective layer against road debris, minor scratches, and the elements.
• Variety of Colors and Finishes: Plasti Dip is available in a wide array of colors and finishes, including matte, gloss, and metallics.
• DIY Friendly: This project can be completed at home with minimal tools and effort.

Materials You’ll Need

Having all your materials ready before you start will make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need:

• Plasti Dip Cans: The number of cans required will depend on the size and complexity of your rims. Generally, 4 cans per set of four wheels is a good starting point. It’s better to have too much than not enough. Choose your preferred color and finish.
• Cleaning Supplies:
  • Soap and Water: For initial cleaning. Car wash soap works best.
  • Degreaser: For removing any grease, grime, or brake dust buildup.
  • Microfiber Towels: For drying and wiping down the rims.
• Masking Supplies:
  • Masking Tape: To protect the tires and any parts you don’t want to paint. Painter’s tape works well.
  • Plastic Bags or Newspaper: For extra protection of the tires.
• Wheel Cleaner: Specific wheel cleaner helps in removing tough stains.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from the Plasti Dip. Nitrile gloves are recommended.
• Drop Cloth or Tarp: To protect the ground from overspray.
• Optional but Recommended:
  • Index Cards: To make masking easier, especially for the tire/rim edge.
  • Toothpicks or Similar Pointed Object: For removing any dried Plasti Dip from tire/rim joint.
  • A Well-Ventilated Area: Plasti Dip contains solvents, so proper ventilation is crucial.

Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Your Rims with Plasti Dip

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – the application process. Follow these steps carefully for the best results:

Step 1: Preparation is Key

Proper preparation is essential for a successful Plasti Dip application. A clean and dry surface ensures optimal adhesion and prevents imperfections in the final finish.

1. Clean the Rims Thoroughly:
   • Start by rinsing your wheels with water to remove loose dirt and debris.
   • Wash them thoroughly with soap and water, using a brush or sponge to get into all the nooks and crannies.
   • Use a wheel cleaner and brush to remove brake dust. Be sure to rinse well.
   • Rinse the rims thoroughly with clean water, ensuring all soap residue is gone.
2. Degrease the Rims:
   • Apply a degreaser to the rims, focusing on areas where grease or grime may have accumulated, such as around the lug nuts.
   • Allow the degreaser to sit for the recommended time (follow product instructions)
   • Wipe the rims down with a clean microfiber towel.
3. Dry the Rims Completely:
   • Use a clean, dry microfiber towel to dry the rims thoroughly. Ensure there is no moisture remaining.
   • Alternatively, you can allow the rims to air dry completely. However, using a microfiber towel will reduce water spotting and prevent delays.
4. Masking the Tires:
   • Apply masking tape around the perimeter of the rim where it meets the tire. The tape should be applied as neatly as possible for the best results.
   • Use playing cards, index cards, or masking paper, sliding them between the rim and tire edge. Go all the way around the tire for consistent results.
   • Alternatively you can use plastic garbage bags over the tires and tape down the edges.
   • Ensure that the tire is completely covered, leaving only the rim exposed.

Step 2: Applying the First Coat

Now that your rims are clean, dry, and masked, it’s time to start applying the Plasti Dip. The key to a good finish is to apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat.

1. Shake the Can Well: Shake the Plasti Dip can vigorously for at least one minute to ensure proper mixing of the pigments. The better it is mixed, the less chance of inconsistencies.
2. Test Spray: Before applying to your rims, test the spray pattern on a piece of cardboard or newspaper. This will help you get a feel for the spray distance and how much product is coming out.
3. Apply the First Coat:
   • Hold the can about 6-10 inches away from the rim.
   • Start spraying from one side and move with a smooth, even motion across the surface of the rim.
   • Make sure the first coat is very light and thin, almost like a dusting. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect at this stage. The goal is to create a base layer for subsequent coats.
   • Aim for about 50% coverage on the initial coat.
4. Allow Drying Time: Allow the first coat to dry for approximately 15-30 minutes. The exact drying time will depend on ambient temperature and humidity. The Plasti Dip will start to look matte. Avoid touching the coated surface while it dries.

Step 3: Applying Subsequent Coats

After the first coat has dried, you can begin applying subsequent coats. These coats will build up the thickness of the Plasti Dip and provide a more uniform finish.

1. Apply the Second Coat:
   • Repeat the spraying technique from the first coat.
   • Apply a slightly heavier coat than the first, but still avoid applying too much product that leads to dripping.
   • Aim for around 80% coverage this time.
2. Allow Drying Time: Allow the second coat to dry for approximately 15-30 minutes.
3. Continue with Additional Coats:
   • Apply 3-5 more coats (or more if desired).
   • Ensure each coat is of uniform thickness and covers the entire rim.
   • Allow proper drying time between each coat.
4. Inspection: Before the last coat, check for any areas that may need additional attention and add more Plasti Dip as needed.
5. Apply the Final Coat: Apply a final, slightly heavier coat to ensure a smooth, uniform finish.

Step 4: Removing the Masking

Once you’ve applied the desired number of coats and the last coat is touch dry but not fully cured, it’s time to remove the masking.

1. Remove the Masking Tape and Paper/Plastic: Carefully peel away the masking tape from the edges of the rims. Do this before the last layer has completely cured to achieve a clean line.
2. Address any imperfections: If there is any Plasti Dip on the tire, use a toothpick or similar pointed object to carefully remove it from the tire/rim edge
3. Clean-Up: Clean off any excess material or overspray as needed.

Step 5: Final Drying and Inspection

Allow the Plasti Dip to dry and cure completely before handling the rims. It’s important to allow the Plasti Dip to cure fully. This ensures optimal durability and helps prevent premature peeling.

1. Final Dry: Allow the rims to fully cure for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight, before re-installing tires.
2. Inspect the Finished Product: Once fully cured, inspect your newly Plasti Dipped rims. Check for any areas that may need touch-ups. If there are any small inconsistencies, you can spot-spray those areas.

Tips for Success

Here are a few additional tips to help you achieve the best results:

• Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Plasti Dip contains solvents, so good ventilation is crucial.
• Apply Thin Coats: Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat, this reduces the chance of runs.
• Maintain Consistent Spray Distance: Maintain a consistent spray distance throughout the application process.
• Don’t Rush the Process: Allow ample drying time between coats.
• Clean the Nozzle: If the spray nozzle starts to clog, wipe it clean with a rag.
• Warm the Cans: If you are applying in cooler temperatures, warm the cans in a tub of warm water.
• Consider a Glossifier: If you desire a glossy finish, consider using Plasti Dip’s Glossifier after your final coat of color is dry.
• Be Patient: Plasti dipping is not a race. Take your time, and the results will speak for themselves.

Maintenance of Plasti Dipped Rims

Plasti Dipped rims are relatively easy to maintain, but a few steps can help you extend their life and appearance:

• Gentle Cleaning: Use mild soap and water to clean your Plasti Dipped rims. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the coating.
• Avoid High-Pressure Washers: High-pressure washers can potentially damage the Plasti Dip, so use a normal pressure setting or simply a garden hose.
• Touch-Ups: If you notice any areas that have chipped or peeled, you can easily touch them up with another light coat of Plasti Dip.
• Avoid Brake Dust: Clean brake dust from your rims regularly as brake dust is corrosive and can damage paint, powdercoat, or PlastiDip.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Solvents: Avoid prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals as they may degrade PlastiDip

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful preparation, you might encounter a few issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

• Runs and Drips: If you experience runs or drips, it means you applied too much Plasti Dip in one area. Let the run or drip fully dry, carefully peel it off the rim, and then lightly recoat over that area.
• Rough Texture: A rough texture usually indicates that the Plasti Dip is either too cold or was applied unevenly. A fresh coat should smooth out some imperfections.
• Peeling: Peeling can occur if the rims were not properly cleaned and prepped. It can also be a result of not applying enough coats, or not allowing sufficient drying time in between coats. Make sure your rims are extremely clean and dry prior to coating.
• Uneven Color Distribution: Shaking the can adequately before and during application should ensure uniform color distribution.

Conclusion

Plasti Dipping your rims is a great way to customize your car’s look without breaking the bank. It is a fun and easy project that anyone can do with a little bit of patience and the right tools. With careful preparation, proper technique, and a bit of attention to detail, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will make your car stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re going for a matte black look or a vibrant, eye-catching color, Plasti Dip offers endless possibilities for creativity and customization. So, grab your materials, find a good ventilated work space, and let’s get started transforming your wheels!