LAX Wheel Refinishing Introduces the Antique Finish - Import Tuner Magazine

LAX Wheel refinishing is L.A.'s hidden gem when it comes to wheel finishing and repair. For over three years we've kept in constant contact with the company that can push out finish and finalize 1,200 wheels per day and regardless if you want your wheels repaired, have a chunk of your cast wheel missing, LAX is the one-stop shop that does it all. Upon our last visit Jesus - the CEO - showed us the process of his new "Antique Finish", the results are more than impressive and the photos show you exactly how it's done. This multi-Step process is one that is tedious as it is delicate as any specialized craft, it's a process best left to artisans who have mastered the game.

Step 1: The face of the wheel is stripped of its original paint and then propped up on one of the prep stations and hit with 320-grit. Sanding the wheels down is all part of the pre-prep and once done it's on to Step two.

Step 2: The face of the wheel is then transferred to another station and hit with another block that gives it the deeper indentations and brushed look. The brushed grooves help make the wheel pop once all the clear coats and paints have been applied. This process takes a few minutes per wheel.

Step 3: Once the final brush has been finished each face of the wheel is dipped in an ultrasonic bath, which removes all debris and microscopic contaminants.

Step 4: Once the wheel is dry, it is moved to a paint station where it is hit with clear primer.

Step 5: The face of the wheel is then transferred to another paint station, which applies a special blend of paint, which adds color while containing low opacity. This allows the brushed finish to refract light to give the color an elegant yet low-key sheen.

Step 6: Once the color has been applied evenly it is then brought to another station for a final layer of clear coat and then the wheel is baked for 15 minutes at 250 degrees.