Rims take a beating. Road salt, brake dust, and UV rays all attack their finish. A good clear coat protects your rims, keeping them looking new. It can also make cleaning easier. I have used clear coats on my own cars for years. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Eastwood 2K AeroSpray Clear Coat: Best overall for durability and professional finish.
- Spray Max 2K High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol: Excellent gloss and chemical resistance, great for larger projects.
- POR-15 45404 Clear Coat: Super tough and ideal for preventing rust on bare metal rims.
- Dupli-Color Clear Coat: Good for touch-ups and small areas, easy to find and use.
- KBS Coatings DiamondFinish Clear: Self-leveling and flexible, perfect for a smooth, chip-resistant finish.
Top 5 Best Clear Coat For Rims
Eastwood 2K AeroSpray Clear Coat
Eastwood 2K AeroSpray Clear Coat gives you a professional-grade finish. It’s a two-component clear coat in a convenient aerosol can. This clear coat is known for its exceptional durability and resistance to scratches, chemicals, and UV damage. It provides a hard, glossy finish that will make your rims look fantastic and stay protected for years.
Pros:
- ✅ Very durable and long-lasting.
- ✅ Provides a high-gloss, professional finish.
- ✅ Resistant to chemicals, scratches, and UV rays.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than single-stage clear coats.
- ❌ Requires careful application to avoid runs.
- ❌ Once activated, it has a limited pot life.
Verdict: Best for those wanting a tough, professional-looking finish that will last.
Spray Max 2K High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol
Spray Max 2K High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol is a top choice for achieving a showroom shine. This two-component clear coat offers outstanding gloss and chemical resistance. It’s designed for automotive refinishing and provides a durable, protective layer. I’ve used this on several projects, and the results are always impressive.
Pros:
- ✅ Delivers an exceptionally high-gloss finish.
- ✅ Excellent resistance to chemicals and solvents.
- ✅ Easy to apply with a smooth, even spray pattern.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be tricky to spray without getting orange peel.
- ❌ Requires proper ventilation and safety gear.
- ❌ More expensive than standard clear coats.
Verdict: Great for achieving a professional, high-gloss finish on your rims.
POR-15 45404 Clear Coat
POR-15 45404 Clear Coat is formulated for superior adhesion and durability. This clear coat is moisture-cured and incredibly tough. It’s often used over POR-15 rust preventative paint but works great on bare metal rims too. I like this when I want maximum protection.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent adhesion to various surfaces.
- ✅ Provides a super-tough, durable finish.
- ✅ Resistant to scratches, chips, and chemicals.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be difficult to apply smoothly.
- ❌ Requires multiple thin coats for best results.
- ❌ Longer drying time compared to other clear coats.
Verdict: Best for rims needing maximum protection against rust and damage.
Dupli-Color Clear Coat
Dupli-Color Clear Coat is a convenient and affordable option for smaller jobs. This single-stage clear coat is easy to find at most auto parts stores. It’s ideal for touching up small imperfections or protecting newly painted rims. I have used this for small repairs and quick projects, and it works fine.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to find and readily available.
- ✅ Affordable and budget-friendly.
- ✅ Simple to apply for DIY projects.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as durable as two-component clear coats.
- ❌ Less resistant to chemicals and scratches.
- ❌ May require multiple coats for adequate protection.
Verdict: A good choice for small touch-ups and budget-conscious users.
KBS Coatings DiamondFinish Clear
KBS Coatings DiamondFinish Clear is a single-part clear coat known for its flexibility. It self-levels and creates a smooth, chip-resistant finish. This clear coat can be applied directly to various surfaces, including painted and bare metal rims. It’s really good for getting a glass-like look.
Pros:
- ✅ Self-leveling for a smooth, even finish.
- ✅ Flexible and resistant to cracking and chipping.
- ✅ Can be applied to various surfaces.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires careful surface preparation.
- ❌ May need several coats for full protection.
- ❌ Can be sensitive to humidity during application.
Verdict: Perfect for achieving a smooth, durable finish with good chip resistance.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right clear coat involves several factors. Think about the type of finish you want. Also consider durability and ease of application. Here are some tips to help you decide:
- Type of Clear Coat: Single-stage clear coats are easier to apply. Two-component (2K) clear coats offer better durability and chemical resistance.
- Durability: If you want long-lasting protection, go for a 2K clear coat. They are more resistant to scratches, chemicals, and UV damage.
- Ease of Application: Aerosol cans are convenient for DIY projects. But they might not offer the same control as a spray gun.
- Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is key. Clean, sand, and prime your rims before applying the clear coat.
- Budget: Clear coats range in price. Balance your budget with your desired level of protection and finish quality.
- Environmental Conditions: Consider temperature and humidity when applying. These can affect the drying time and finish quality.
- Safety: Always wear a respirator, gloves, and eye protection. Work in a well-ventilated area.
FAQs
How many coats of clear coat should I apply?
Generally, two to three coats are recommended. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
Can I apply clear coat over existing paint?
Yes, but make sure the existing paint is clean and properly prepped. Lightly sand the surface for better adhesion.
What is the difference between 1K and 2K clear coats?
1K clear coats are single-component and dry by solvent evaporation. 2K clear coats require a hardener and offer superior durability and chemical resistance.
How long does clear coat take to dry?
Drying times vary. It usually takes 24-48 hours for the clear coat to fully cure. Check the product label for specific drying times.
How do I prevent runs and drips when applying clear coat?
Apply thin, even coats. Keep the spray can or gun moving. Avoid spraying too much in one area.
Conclusion
Choosing the best clear coat for your rims depends on your needs. Eastwood 2K AeroSpray is a great overall pick. Spray Max 2K gives an awesome glossy finish. POR-15 is super tough, and Dupli-Color is easy to use. KBS Coatings offers a flexible finish. Consider your budget and the level of protection you need. With the right clear coat, your rims will look great for years.
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