Galvanizing steels

[what2do]

Just pondering the idea of galvanizing some steels that I've acquired.

Firtsly, if I blast them, what do I need to coat them with to prevent any further surface corrosion before I take them to be treated?

Secondly, .........nope, that's it for the time being!!!!

[keith]

you don't need to coat them, blast to steel then galv ( they will chem clean them again to remove any oxidisation)

most galv products I've seen look rough as.....at best .

we pay 50p-60p a kg as a guide.

wouldn't hammerite or similar be a better option.
powder coating / refurb can be done for around 30 quid a corner.....loads better

[itchyfeet]

when we get metalwork hot dip galvanised at work we notice thinner sheet metal things can warp due to the heat of the tank, not sure if wheels would do that or not.

As said you also get rough bits but I thought you were going for the 'rat look'

[keith]

i don't think wheels would warp.....they will shred your sponge when you wash them though

[syncroandy]

Balancing might be a challenge.. Electroplating would be better if you want zinced rims.
Paint works quite well if done properly..

[keith]

alochrome finish would be nice...pretty durable

[what2do]

Alochrome appeals as I know a company in Slough. Has it been done by anyone on here? Wondering about cost and durability. Cheers.

[what2do]

PS Paul, I didn't miss the 'rat' comment. My van is in a state of transition which is better than a van which is a Transh*te!!!!

Having said that, the new Tranny does look appealing, but will it look so endearing in 30 years time?

[The Bishop]

I'm not sure why you would galvanize steel wheels. There are so many nicer options .

[what2do]

@the bishop, I'm all ears. Not committed to anything yet so feel free to offer any suggestions. Cheers.

[toomanytoys]

I'd be concerned about the tyre seating face... that needs to be pretty smooth.. or you will damage the tyre and or have slow leaks..
+ paint doesn't stick to galv very well.. and when they get weathered they will look crappy..

Blast and paint.. or aluminiumised.... most powerder coaters can do this too..

Be aware in any case that the paint on the wheel nut/bolt seats will come away or squish out and the nut/bolt can come loose.. so its a good idea to not coat that part.. or to lightly clean then up there before fitting if the pain is thick...

[covdubber]

industrial exterior chrome plating! not like a mirror chrome finish & would look pretty good on wheels

if you had your wheels bead blasted then galv dipped they should come out with a smooth finish but you'd want to dust the outer face with paint to look nice!