Has anyone powdercoated M.A.T. processed Enkei wheels like the RPF1 or the NT03+M to name a few. I heard a couple people saying that the powdercoating process can make M.A.T. wheels much weaker, and prone to breaking/cracking. I was thinking about powdercoating my RPF1s flat black.

 

anyone?

 

I called Enkei USA and asked this very question. They said that RPF1's (I have them too)are powder coated from the factory, and if properly done, refinishing should present no problem. I understand that the potential problem is removing the old finish. It is very tough. Some coaters "burn" off the old coat by running the wheels through the oven at elevated temps. This higher than normal temperature could draw the temper of the heat treated wheel. The best solution is chemical stripping done by professionals.

Actually, the powder coating is an excellent "primer" coat. You can very sucessfully paint over your factory Enkei powder coat finish and achieve a very good looking, durable wheel.