The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts Sandblasting rims.

I am thinking of sandblasting my rims without removing the tires. I know it would be better to remove them . Just trying to save some money. If I mask around the tire and be careful not to overspray could it be done?
JHolland
Middle Ga

I've done this many times, the sand just bounces off of the tire, no need to tape it up. Any sand that gets stuck between the rim and tire will work itself out, no different than driving through a mud hole.

I painted my wheels with a Rustoliem Gloss rattle can spray paint and cut a piece of cardboard that was about 16" long by 8" wide to the curve of the rim and slid it around the tire as I painted catching the overspray. It worked for me and the paint has been on the rims for over 10 years and still looks great. Any overspray that gets on the tire will come right off with a little lacquer thinner on a rag.

Just remember to not blast anywhere near your truck, the sand will get into places you don't want it to...

Mike B

I would remove the tires,and sandblast he INSIDE of the rims as well. Most old rims will accrue more rust on the inside,as they do on the outside. With the rust removed from the entire rim,it's much easier to find stress-cracks and flaws that you may over-look if you just use a wire-brush/solvent. Also,I've found it much easier to change a tire with a painted inner-surface,as opposed to one with 55,(or more) years of rust "Welding" the surfaces together. Hope this helps.

Remove the tires......Can't find the time or money to do the job right the first time? Where are you going to find the time or money to do the job right the second time?

Wheels and tires are not something that you want to take a chance on!

Agreed
ALL my wheels were ten times rustier on the inside.
Heavy zinc paint, enamel, good for 70 more years.