Rolling car rims - how it's done

The condition of our roads leaves much to be desired. And what suffers most from this is the car’s chassis, including the wheel rims. From impacts, the discs begin to deform. And depending on the degree of deformation, there are two ways to solve the problem. This may involve purchasing a new disk or repairing it, which is done by rolling stamped disks. If you do not try to restore the geometry of the disk, an imbalance appears during wheel rotation and vibration, which leads to wear of other parts of the chassis system and premature wear of the rubber on the wheels.

powder coating of wheels

Powder coating can restore the attractiveness of the disc.
The cost of painting one R16 alloy wheel, depending on the complexity of the work, is approximately 2000–3000 rubles. For a 21-diameter disc they will ask for 4000–5500 rubles. Powder coating can restore the attractiveness of the disc. The cost of painting one R16 alloy wheel, depending on the complexity of the work, is approximately 2000–3000 rubles. For a 21-diameter disc they will ask for 4000–5500 rubles.

disc painting

You can not cover the entire disc with acrylic paint, but, for example, apply a design.
You can not cover the entire disc with acrylic paint, but, for example, apply a design.

Painting stamped wheels is almost no different from painting a body. The surface is cleaned of dirt, washed, degreased and dried. Then they prime, paint and apply varnish.

Rolling

If the damage to the disk is minor, it can be sent for rolling, both cast and steel. The equipment for rolling discs is the same - only the prices will differ. A steel disc is more repairable and cheaper to restore. Steel is more pliable, so rolling can remove axial runout, dents on the rim and other deformations. By the way, if a dent has formed on the rim so large that the seal of the wheel has been compromised, then in the case of a steel disk the bent edge can be straightened with a sledgehammer even in the field. But with a cast disk, such a trick, alas, will not work.

The procedure is as follows: the disc is rolled and pulled out using a hydraulic press with roller profiles. The geometry of the disk surface is monitored using a laser meter.

A little about wheels

A car rim is the central part of a vehicle wheel. It is connected directly to the wheel hub using special fasteners. The rim is located on the disk and the tire or tire itself is fixed to it.

At the same time, there are 2 main types of disks that are most often found on Russian roads:

• Stamped. The most budgetary, and therefore the most popular designs. Such products are sold and used everywhere. The main material for their manufacture is steel. Often, stamped wheels are installed at the factory where the cars are assembled. This is especially true for budget cars.
• Cast. They are also often called light alloy. The cost is slightly higher when compared with stamped analogues. Manufactured from special light alloys. The most common materials used are magnesium, titanium and aluminum. They are characterized by low weight, extremely attractive appearance and decent strength indicators. Corrosion resistance is also considered one of the main advantages.

Forged and prefabricated wheels are much less common. They can be called exotic for the countries of the post-Soviet space, since they are rarely found on sale, and the price is sometimes astronomical.

Regardless of what kind of rims are installed on your vehicle, if the geometry is damaged, you can always try to restore them. This is relevant when the situation cannot be called critical, but the damage is major.

stamped disc

A stamped disc is easier to restore than a cast one.
That is why the prices for repairing such wheels are lower. A stamped disc is easier to restore than a cast one. That is why the prices for repairing such wheels are lower.

Approximate prices for rolling rims in Moscow, rub.

If the cast disc is slightly bent and can be balanced with additional weights, rolling may help. It will give the disk its original perfectly round shape. Plus, there will be fewer weights on the wheel. Universal weights are glued to the inside of the disk. In winter, with frequent temperature changes or when washing wheels under high pressure, the adhesive tape may not hold up and the load will fall off. And this will affect the wheel balancing. Let's not forget that air can escape from the tire through a small dent on the sidewall of the rim. Rolling will remove small dents. The whole process will take no more than an hour.

What does disc rolling mean?

Before turning to specialists who are involved in rolling alloy wheels, or who specialize in rolling stamped automobile wheels, every motorist must understand the essence and principle of this procedure.

Let's start with the fact that rolling is possible only in a car service center that deals with such operations. This is due to the need to use expensive professional equipment. It makes no sense to buy such machines for personal use. In financial terms, these are completely unjustified costs. Plus, you need certain qualifications and skills to roll discs efficiently.

Special rolling for car wheels is aimed at returning the product to its original geometry, that is, the correct shape, lost as a result of impact or damage. The procedure is aimed at eliminating irregularities and removing formed dents. Before installing the part on the machine, an inspection procedure and damage analysis are performed to determine the degree of misalignment.

Disc rolling

There are 3 types of geometry displacement on car wheels:

• axial;
• radial;
• combined.

In the case of radial displacement, we are talking about a violation of the geometry of the disk in relation to the vertical plane. In practice this is much easier to understand. If you drive a car or simply rotate such a disk around its axis, beats will occur from below and above. Similar deformations are typical for the rear and front parts of the rims.

If we talk about axial displacement, then here there is a deformation or change in geometry already in the horizontal plane. In this case, an uneven distribution of mass occurs in the planes, as a result of which the rubber on the car begins to actively, but unevenly, wear out.

It is not difficult to guess that with a combined displacement two types of geometry violations are combined at once, that is, changes occur in the vertical and horizontal planes. It is the rolling of damaged wheel rims that allows you to eliminate defects that have arisen, as well as return the products to their original shape, thereby getting rid of radial, axial or combined displacements.

In the conditions of Russian roads, the technology of professional rolling of cast and stamped wheels is becoming increasingly in demand. This is due to the fact that using this method there is a real opportunity to extend the service life of products, rather than buying a new kit, the cost of which for a number of car owners hits the wallet hard.

Therefore, many are naturally interested in how to properly roll deformed cast wheels, and what to do in case of geometry violation on stamped steel products. Before talking about the essence of the technology or procedure for restoration by rolling, every motorist must learn about the signs when such a service really becomes relevant.

wheel balancing

Disc damage affects wheel balancing.
According to technical regulations, the maximum deviation should not exceed 0.5 mm, both in the axial and radial directions. If the indicators are higher, you will feel a beat on the steering wheel while driving even on a perfectly flat road. Disc damage affects wheel balancing. According to technical regulations, the maximum deviation should not exceed 0.5 mm, both in the axial and radial directions. If the indicators are higher, you will feel a beat on the steering wheel while driving even on a perfectly flat road.

If the dent is large, the rolling procedure takes two or more hours. To speed up the process, would-be craftsmen heat the dent site with a blowtorch. This should not be done under any circumstances. The fact is that a cast disk has a solid metal structure, and local heating will destroy this structure much more than rolling a “cold” disk. In places of heating, strong metal stresses will arise. If in the future the stress point falls into a hole, especially with sharp edges, this will provoke the destruction of the disk, which, in turn, can lead to a serious accident.

Argon welding

If there is a strong impact, cracks may form on one or more arms of the disc. But let’s say the driver decided to stop in time and check for damage to the wheel. I noticed a crack and installed a spare tire. Now you need to decide what to do with the damaged disk: throw it away or try to repair it?

What is disk editing and why is it needed?

Almost every car enthusiast has encountered repairing car rims, and if, ultimately, he wants to get the desired result, he needs to contact experienced, qualified specialists. Therefore, we decided to talk about the disc editing technology itself.

Today, disk repair is carried out at many service stations, but it is better to contact those services that have specialized equipment, since due to its absence, the final result of the work may disappoint you. Currently, disk straightening technologies make it possible to eliminate dents on different types of disks: be they cast, forged or stamped. The correct technology for straightening disks is carried out, first of all, on an individual basis, i.e., each case requires a special approach. In particular, the individual approach depends on the type of disc and the type of damage.

Before repairing disks, specialists carry out a kind of diagnostics. It is not possible to determine the nature of damage to a disk installed on a car; to do this, it must be “taken off”, i.e. remove the tire from it and give it torque, for example on a balancing stand. This is one of the key factors in straightening technology. Only after diagnostics have been carried out will the specialist begin the disk repair procedure.

As a rule, service stations focused on wheel repairs carry out a complete restoration of car wheels, removing axial and radial runout.

Restoring stamped disks does not create any problems for specialists (unless, of course, the steel disk has turned into a piece of twisted metal), and therefore costs much less.

Most often, motorists who have given their preference to light alloy wheels (commonly called casting) face problems with the repair and restoration of discs, since this type, despite the huge number of advantages, is more vulnerable to mechanical damage and its restoration, which is called “will cost a pretty penny.” "

Modern disk editing technologies successfully cope with the task of repairing disks of this type. The main reason why motorists turn to wheel repair services is poor-quality road surfaces. Naturally, buying a new disc is a luxury, which is why many car owners practice repairing damage to discs by contacting a service station. But all motorists must remember that the technology for straightening disks must include specialized equipment, especially for alloy wheels, otherwise the result will be reduced to zero. Therefore, when choosing a service, inquire about the availability of special machines.

Even if disk repairs carried out using special equipment are a little more expensive, this is not a reason to refuse quality service. The fact is that poor-quality wheel repairs and non-compliance with the technological process can jeopardize your personal safety while driving. Service stations often offer disc rentals. This repair technology is only applicable! in relation to stamped (steel) disks, because During rolling, the metal is compacted by the rollers of the machine, due to which the structure of the metal changes, as a result of which, during movement, the edge of the disk rim can be separated (severed) at the point where the force is applied from the rolling rollers. After rolling an alloy wheel, the next blow to it on the road may be the last not only for the disk itself. Therefore, if somewhere you are offered to “roll” a cast disc, run away!

Disc editing technology

We have already told you that before repairing disks you need to carry out diagnostics. Before carrying out diagnostics, the disk must be completely cleaned of dirt. Then the specialist determines the type of runout (axial or radial), the depth of the dent or rupture of the disk, the size of the missing part, and only after that the actual editing of the disk begins. A cast disk is repaired with mandatory local heating of the impact site to relieve metal stress. This technology does not make the disc dangerous to use; the most that such a disc faces is a deeper dent (by 5-10%) if the impact occurs in the same place. Cracks, breaks, and missing parts on a cast disk are repaired by argon welding and only by an experienced specialist. However, always remember! that alloy wheels cannot be repaired if they have cracks at the base of the spokes or cracks near the mounting holes.

Summary

So, we believe that we were able to briefly highlight the most important aspects in the work of repairing car rims and we believe that today one of the most experienced services providing this type of service is the Specialized Technical Service Center "Rim Editing", which works in this direction for more than 15 years and has modern special equipment, as well as competent, experienced specialists in this field. Unfortunately, here only the “geometry” will be restored to you, and the place of repair will be “hidden” under a thin layer of paint so that it is not noticeable. When painting discs, powder technologies are used, and this is a very complex, labor-intensive process that costs much more to the client, ultimately leading the cost of repairs to the cost of a new disc.

As for alloy wheels, and this is very important, having many years of experience in restoring alloy wheels, the specialists of this service warn that alloy wheel manufacturers do not recommend repairing a damaged wheel. Therefore, it is the owner’s choice to repair or buy new disks, because According to the traffic regulations, the driver is responsible for the serviceability of the vehicle. That is why, when handing over an alloy wheel for repair to the specified service, the driver must sign an agreement for repair.

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Author: Evgeny Laptev

argon welding of the disc

Modern argon-arc welding machines make it possible to weld broken disk beams, eliminate a rim crack, and even weld a broken rim fragment.
The filler material is selected according to the composition of the disk. Let's say, if a disk bursts, it means that silicon predominates in its composition, and then they take silicon wire. If the disc is bent, its composition is dominated by magnesium. Magnesium wire is used. Modern argon-arc welding machines make it possible to weld broken disk beams, eliminate a rim crack, and even weld a broken rim fragment. The filler material is selected according to the composition of the disk. Let's say, if a disk bursts, it means that silicon predominates in its composition, and then they take silicon wire. If the disc is bent, its composition is dominated by magnesium. Magnesium wire is used.

When to roll

What is wheel bolt pattern?
The car itself helps to understand that the rims need to undergo restoration in order to return to the correct geometry. The car changes the nature of its behavior on the road, making the driver feel something is wrong and feel the changes.

Experts and simply experienced motorists identify 3 key signs by which one can certainly understand that the geometry of the violation, displacements have occurred, and some action needs to be taken.

It is a mistake to rely solely on visual inspection. Externally, the wheel may look quite normal and not cause any suspicion. But even with small defects and geometry violations, you can encounter unpleasant consequences. Better listen to your own vehicle. If you notice at least one of the signs listed below, you should at least visit a car service center and undergo a diagnostic procedure. In the case where the check confirms axial, radial or combined displacement, the rolling itself is carried out directly.

1. The rubber on the wheels begins to wear out too quickly. Moreover, in parallel, an uneven decrease in tread thickness is observed. This does not always indicate problems with disk geometry. But it acts as one of the potential reasons.
2. There is a deterioration in the level of adhesion between the wheels and the road surface. Steering efficiency also decreases, braking takes longer, and braking distance increases. To do this, you need to understand and know how the car behaves under normal conditions. Inexperienced drivers may not always notice such signs.
3. An extraneous vibration is felt when moving. These vibrations are transmitted to the steering wheel in a situation where the front wheel rims located on the front axle are damaged. And when the geometry is disrupted on the rear axle, then vibrations will be transmitted to the body.

It is extremely reckless and wrong to ignore such symptoms. If you continue to operate the car with such a problem, this will gradually lead to the destruction of the structural elements of the suspension and steering components. One can only imagine how much it would cost to repair or replace them. Compared to disc rolling, this is a huge financial cost.

Rolling process

dent on the disk

Theoretically, such a specimen can be restored using argon welding, but the responsible craftsman will not undertake such work - the risk is too great.
Theoretically, such a specimen can be restored using argon welding, but the responsible craftsman will not undertake such work - the risk is too great.

Argon welding can eliminate almost any damage to the disk, even if it has broken into several parts. The damaged area of ​​the disk is cleaned, heated to its full depth, and boiled on both sides. Thus, the crack is filled with metal. After welding, the seams are ground, polished, and then the disc itself is balanced.

Approximate cost of welding disks with argon:

• cost of welding seam per 1 cm - 150 rubles
• fusing the disk side from the inside - 300 rubles per 1 cm
• fusing the side from the outside - 400 rubles per 1 cm.

Making a stand for wheel correction

The stand is intended for correcting uneven stampings and light alloy wheels with your own hands and can be developed at home. Compared to manual processing, it significantly improves productivity and quality of edits.

To make a disk straightening machine, follow this procedure:

• install the shaft on the frame, where fasten the universal hub;
• Place the product that needs to be fixed on the hub;
• secure the bed to the stand. The stand itself is attached to a hydraulic station, which will power the mobile hydraulic cylinder. A tool for straightening discs is mounted on its rod;
• control the cylinder using a hydraulic distributor with a pressure reduction valve;
• To be able to install the cylinder at any angle relative to the product being repaired, use a pair of movable brackets.

Read also: Video cables and adapters

In order for a machine for rolling cast discs to fasten products with different diameters, its hub must be equipped with centering washers of the required diameters (a total of 18 fasteners will be required).

dent on the disk

You shouldn't skimp on your safety.
If you see a bent rim, replace the disc. You shouldn't skimp on your safety. If you see a bent rim, replace the disc.

Externally, a restored disk looks no worse than a new one. But how long will such a wheel last - after all, the loads on it are not small? The European Wheel Manufacturers' Association (EUWA) is against welding cracked alloy wheels. Experts believe that discs cannot be repaired by welding, since heating leads to a change in the molecular structure of the metal and the accumulation of residual deformations. In addition, no one can guarantee that the wheel will not break the next day. So it’s better to throw away a bent or cracked alloy wheel immediately and buy a new one. Yes, it is expensive, but life and health are more expensive.

• Have you prepared material about whether it is possible to return the car to the seller?

Wheel rims: repair or replace?

Rolling (straightening) of cast wheels

Rolling (straightening) of a cast wheel is usually offered at tire centers in cases where, during the next beading of the tire, it turns out that the disk has some deformation, which causes a static imbalance (in simple words, the disk beats). The rolling of the disc itself is carried out on equipment similar to that used to roll steel discs, but at the same time, tire shop technicians often heat the deformed areas of the disc with a blowtorch or other method. It is absolutely forbidden to repair disks this way! (the answer to the question “why?” is above). The only relatively safe option is to try to “tap” the bent (deformed) sections of the rim and then roll it without warming it up. But this process is quite labor-intensive and time-consuming, so the price of such repairs is quite high and not every master will undertake it. And this is relevant only in the mildest cases, when, in principle, you can do without straightening the disk, since with more complex deformations it is no longer possible to “tap” the disk efficiently, at least without heating it. It is very important to understand that a heated alloy wheel is in any case unsuitable for installation on a car, so when purchasing used alloy wheels, you must carefully inspect all surfaces of each disk. Heating usually leaves corresponding stains on the disc that cannot be washed off. Therefore, if the discs have not been painted, it is usually not difficult to determine whether the disc has been heated in the past.