joeblue

I've got an '06 2lt. with the 17" 5 spoke wheels how can I tell real quick if they are polished or chrome. The reason I ask is that I'm replacing two due to curb rash and I need to know what they are for ordering replacements.
Thanks

sleeper

If it is not obvious to you (I guess it isn't), post a pic.

Joe-
this remark was NOT meant as being sarcastic.

Anyway here's the test: see if a MAGNET will slightly stick to the rims, if so they are Chromed. Chrome plating is slightly magnetic..

Polished rims: the MAGNET will not stick at all..

urbexHHR

Hey, be nice. I don't know the true definition. Is polished the same as satin? To me, polished sounds what you do to make it shiny....and chrome is shiny...so I can see the confusion.

afs9

If it is an 06 2LT, you can safely assume they are the polished aluminum (we don't have chrome wheels). These are standard on 2LT's in 06/07/08 and I think the pattern changed for the 09/10's, but still 5 spoke and shiny.

Of course, I could be wrong as well.

IgottaWoody

Chrome is mirror like...polished is satin but shiny with some reflection( and clear coated)
Some of the cars came off the lot with custom wheels..I have one and they is chromed

sleeper

Joe-
My remark was NOT meant as being sarcastic.

Anyway here's the test: see if a MAGNET will stick to the rims, if so they are Chromed. ie: Chrome plating is slightly magnetic in it's composition. Even over aluminum rims.


Polished rims: the MAGNET will not stick at all..

joeblue

OK, thanks. The reason I brought up chrome is that Hubcap Haven offers chrome. That's where the confusion came in their pictures are hard to tell apart.

joeblue

BTW the dealer says the magnet trick won't work on these wheels crome or not.

sleeper

Joe-

There are different degrees of chroming, my Harleys have triple plated chrome over aluminum & a magnet sticks to these..

1: flash chrome plating (cheap) this generally doesn't last long & starts flaking off, & I'm sure no magnet will stick to it.

2: triple plating ( good stuff here)
3: show chrome (6 layers & $$$)

The thing I prefer about polished aluminum (even w/clear coating) is that you can always polish them back up..

Chrome, once it starts flaking or pitting. You will have nasty looking rims. Only fix it to pay to have them re-plated.

Just my .02

peevlos