Newer 300 series wheel paint question

[bk-scouter 93]

I just recently bought a used set of rear ag tires and wheels to use on my 314-8, and I decided to spruce up the wheels with spray paint, so to match my existing ones. After wire brushing, some hand sanding and prime painting, I have put on the first coat of what I thought was a close match of metallic silver. It is so much more brilliant silver than my existing wheels that I stopped painting to find better matches in other paint colors. I tried another brand, and had the same result.

Just for fun, I called my friendly local Toro dealer, and they didn't have any factory silver in stock, and is no longer available.

So I know this question has been asked a few times before, (because I did a few searches) and there has been no clear solution, but what have you guys out there used for the spray bombs that are a very close match ? So far I have used the Aluminum colors from Krylon and Rustoleum. They look really nice, but I'm not satisfied of the color match.

Any help is appreciated, and I know more people will read this post in the future to help them as well. Thanks.

-BK

[Horse Fanatic 49]

There was a post about this not too long ago and it was suggested to use automotive touch up paint. I went to AutoZone and got a couple different shade cans of silver spray bomb car touch up paint and I found those to be "too aluminum" as well. If someone has a specific brand and color that looks right, I'd love to know too.

[bk-scouter 93]

I'll see if I can post some pictures later this evening so to illustrate the difference between the colors.

-BK

[bk-scouter 93]

OK, here are a couple pictures of the wheels side by side. Might be hard to compare since I have the tire still in it's 'baggie' until the painting is done, but I think you'll get the idea... Too much aluminum look instead of the metallic gray. If anyone that has experience with this, your suggestions are welcome. Thanks.

-BK

[MikesRJ 552]

I have one suggestion, but it has nothing to do with the choice of paint, or the color.

When I paint rims which have the tires already mounted, I do it with the tires deflated. Cut a short length of old garden hose so that it will make one wrap around the inner diameter of the rim.

With the tire deflated and the hose inserted between tire and rim, it will hold the tire away from the rim edge. I then paint the rim as usual, but the hose allows me to paint over and inside the lip.

This gives a better appearance when the "baggie is removed and the tire inflated..

[buckrancher 2,694]

how about rustoleum stainless steel spray bomb with thier crystal clear topcoat

I think it a little darker than oem but looks better than aluminum

Brian

[Save Old Iron 1,566]

how about rustoleum stainless steel spray bomb with thier crystal clear topcoat

exactly ..

clearcoat makes a surprisingly big change to the overly "chromy" aluminum look and changes it to a deep glossy grey finish.

[bk-scouter 93]

I have one suggestion, but it has nothing to do with the choice of paint, or the color.

When I paint rims which have the tires already mounted, I do it with the tires deflated. Cut a short length of old garden hose so that it will make one wrap around the inner diameter of the rim.

With the tire deflated and the hose inserted between tire and rim, it will hold the tire away from the rim edge. I then paint the rim as usual, but the hose allows me to paint over and inside the lip.

This gives a better appearance when the "baggie is removed and the tire inflated..

Great tip! If I do this again in the future I will try it. Incidentally, I did deflate the tires so I could push down the tire bead to sneak the masking tape behind the lip of the rim, but the tire seemed to stick to the wheel enough to not let go of the bead all the way. I even tried standing on the sidewall, but it wasn't enough to break loose. Good for now I guess. Thanks Mike.

-BK

[bk-scouter 93]

how about rustoleum stainless steel spray bomb with thier crystal clear topcoat

I think it a little darker than oem but looks better than aluminum

Brian

Brian, have you done this, and if so maybe have any pictures you could post ? I'm VERY interested in the results.

Thanks.

-BK

[stevebo-(Moderator) 8,362]

When I repaint wheels I use rusto alum. color. I usually paint all 4 then if I need to touch up I know the color to use. Granted it is brighter than oem but it looks sharp :thumbs:

[can whlvr 993]

it may not be as close as u would like,but it looks great

[Dresden Guy 24]

Great thread with good info......

My question is:

Is there an accurate database of WH original color scheme for the individual years?From my RS signature, you can see what "horses" I own, but when I go to the RS Photo Gallery, I see great photos of tractors but don't know if they are original or not.

I am not looking for paint brand andor color number, but the paint schemes as the tractors left South Bend . For instance, I have a B-60, which I did not restore and the PO painted the wheels silver/aluminum. I do not think the B-60 had this color originally and I was going to repaint the wheels ivory.... like my B-80 and C-160. ( no comments about all the other stuff that's not original on the B-60 )

When did WH switch from ivory wheels and go to the silver/chrome/grey??

When using metallic colors of paint, a very important factor is the reflectivity of the finish - e.g. - matte, semi-gloss, high gloss, or even clear coat. I better leave it there, before I get way past my knowledge level. <_<

Back to my original question: is there a an accurate database of color schemes - photos are preferable to me. (see pic below)

[bk-scouter 93]

Dresden Guy-

When I was looking for paint color info, I came across a 'sticky' post at the beginning of the "Restorations, Modifications & Customizations" section here at R.S. There are some spray paint matches and mixing formulas listed for the older red and the classic "Linen Beige" wheel color that you would be probably be interested in.

Paint info here

According to some info I have, I believe that W.H. switched the wheel color to metallic gray when the 300 and 400 series were introduced in 1985.

-BK