Curb marks are damage to tire rims such as scuffs, scrapes, or dents. These occur when rims hit the curb at curves and other obstructions. Since curb marks are unsightly, you can repair them with time, patience, and dedication.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Smoothing the rings
This method is for painted metal hoops. If your rings are polished aluminum or magnesium, you will have to use a different method
Step 1. Put on safety gear
To carry out this complete project you will have to sand, use putty, primer, paint and varnish. It is important that you wear eye protection, gloves, and a mask when working with toner, sandpaper, primer, or paint.
Step 2. Sand the scuffed areas with 400-grit sandpaper
Use 400-grit sandpaper to smooth the metal from the damaged area. Don't go too far beyond this area. There is no need to do more work than is necessary. Sand until the damaged area is smooth.
Step 3. Apply automotive putty to the rubbed parts and let it dry
Any type of automotive putty will work. Squeeze a small amount of the product onto a spatula and use it to fill in the damaged area. You should cover the area with a very thin layer. Then let the putty dry; this normally takes only about 30 minutes.
Step 4. Sand excess caulk with 400-grit sandpaper
Once the putty has dried, you can sand off the excess. Use 400-grit sandpaper to smooth the putty until it is level and even with the rest of the hoop.
Step 5. Add more caulk and sand the area again if necessary
If the damage is very deep or you have sanded the dry caulk too much, you can add more. Use the same technique as above and make sure the putty dries before sanding the second coat.
Step 6. Use an abrasive sponge to remove the varnish from the rest of the hoop
Although you can try to exactly match the color of the rings, it is too difficult a task. It is best to repaint the entire hoop so that it is a single solid color. For the paint to adhere, the surface cannot be glossy. Use an abrasive pad to scrape the entire rim until it has a dull finish.
Part 2 of 3: Prime and Paint the Hoops
Step 1. Clean the rings with toner
It is important to clean the rings before proceeding so that the primer and paint adhere well to the metal. Pour a small amount of toner onto a lint-free cloth and use it to clean the entire rim.
Step 2. Cover the entire car so that only the rims are exposed
Covers the valve, lug nuts and the center cap of the rim. Insert masking tape or plastic into the holes in the rim to cover the brake pads as well. Place masking tape behind the rim to cover and protect the tires. Then cover the entire car with kraft paper or fabric. Secure all joints with masking tape so that only the damaged rim is exposed and the rest of the tire and car are covered.
- If you spray primer or paint on the car because it doesn't cover it well, you will ruin it. So take the time to do this step.
- As an alternative, you can remove the tires from the car so that you only have to cover the tire, valve, nuts, center cap, and pads.
Step 3. Spray the primer over the entire rim
Shake the can of primer vigorously before using it. Hold it about 6 inches (15 cm) from the rim and spray thoroughly with short back and forth strokes. Start from the top of the hoop to the bottom. Try to cover everything with a thin, even layer.
Step 4. Let the primer dry and then apply a second coat if desired
Primer takes only 10-15 minutes to dry. If the first coat is too thin or uneven, you can apply a second coat using the same method as before. Let it dry for at least 15 minutes before applying the paint on top.
Step 5. Apply a thin coat of paint to the hoop
Before spraying the paint, you should shake the can. Spray the paint to form a thin, even coat over the entire rim. Don't hold the can too close to the rim - it should be about 6 inches (15 cm) away. Use short strokes and back and forth motions. Start from the top and work your way to the bottom.
Choose the paint color that is as close as possible to the original color of the hoop
Step 6. Apply a second coat of paint after 30 minutes if necessary
If the paint looks uneven or transparent, you can apply another coat. Wait 30 minutes for the first coat to dry, then add the second coat using the same method you used before.
Step 7. Let the paint dry for 2 to 12 hours
For best results, you should allow the paint to dry completely before proceeding with the process. If possible, let it dry overnight so that it sets completely. If you're in a rush, let the paint dry for at least 2 hours before applying the varnish.
Part 3 of 3: Apply the varnish and polish the rings
Step 1. Spray a thin coat of varnish over the hoops
Shake the can before you start and hold it about 6 inches (15 cm) away. Apply a very thin coat. If you spray too much varnish, it will drip, run off, and ruin the look of the earrings. Again, you should start at the top and work your way to the bottom of the hoop. Use short forward and backward strokes.
Step 2. Let the varnish dry for 30 minutes, then apply another coat
Avoid touching the ring to see if it is dry. This can stain the finish. Instead, wait 30 minutes before applying the second coat. Take your time by spraying the varnish so that the entire rim is evenly covered.
Step 3. Let the varnish dry for 12 to 24 hours
It is best to let the varnish dry completely before proceeding. If the varnish isn't dry, you can ruin the finish and have to start the whole project over. If you can't wait 24 hours, wait at least 12 hours before removing the masking tape.
Step 4. Remove the masking tape and replace the center cap
Once the varnish has completely dried, you can remove the masking tape and kraft paper or fabrics from the car. Don't forget to place the center caps as well.
Step 5. Buff the hoops to restore shine
Purchase hoop polishing wax at your auto supply store. Apply according to the instructions on the container. This will help restore the shine to the earrings and make them look like new.
Advice
- It is best to repair curb marks on a hot, sunny day. This will dry the putty, primer and paint faster.
- If you have a tendency to put curb marks on your wheels, buy tires that protect them.