After acquiring a set of used Tracer Tech 1 wheels with faded and chipped 3 Piece Wheel Faces, I embarked on a rebuilding and refinishing project. While countless build threads exist, this guide documents my first experience with 3-piece wheel restoration, offering a detailed reference for others.
Disassembling the 3 Piece Wheels
The initial steps involve careful disassembly and preparation for refinishing.
Tire Dismounting and Tool Gathering
Have tires professionally removed to avoid damage. A reputable shop can also check for bent lips or barrels. Gather the necessary tools:
- 32oz rubber mallet
- 3/8″ ratchet driver with a rubber handle
- 12-point 8mm socket
- 12-point 10mm open/closed wrench
- 4-6″ 3/8″ extension
- Saran wrap
- Craft blade or Exacto-Knife
- Torque wrench
- Silicone sealant
Marking Wheel Components
Mark each barrel and lip with corresponding numbers and lines to ensure proper reassembly. While alignment is less critical for Tracer Tech 1’s rear-mounted 3 piece wheel faces, maintaining original component pairings is good practice.
Bolt Removal and Center Separation
Carefully remove all rim bolts. To protect polished bolt heads, line the socket with Saran wrap. After removing the bolts, use the rubber mallet to separate the 3 piece wheel faces from the barrels. Perform this step on a soft surface to prevent damage.
Barrel and Lip Separation
Carefully slice through the existing sealant between the barrel and lip using a craft knife. Multiple passes may be required. If separation proves difficult, gently tap the pieces apart with the rubber mallet on a padded surface. Applying heat or lubricant can also help loosen stubborn sealant.
Refinishing the 3 Piece Wheel Faces
With the wheels disassembled, the individual components can be refinished.
Old Sealant Removal
Thoroughly remove all remaining sealant from all parts using a craft knife or wire brush. This meticulous step is crucial for proper adhesion of new sealant. Clean all surfaces with water and a rag afterwards.
Refinishing Options
The lips, in excellent condition, only required cleaning. However, the 3 piece wheel faces were professionally powder coated in a custom “Dusted Black” finish. Barrels were polished using a buffing wheel. Hardware was cleaned and polished as well.
Reassembling the Wheels
The final stage involves reassembling the components with new sealant.
Assembling the Wheel
Align the lip and barrel using the previously made marks. Since Tracer Tech 1 wheels have rear-mounted faces, no sealant is needed between these components. Secure the assembly with a few bolts before fully tightening.
Applying Threadlocker and Torqueing Bolts
Apply blue threadlocker to the rim bolts and tighten them in a star pattern to 20-30 ft/lbs using a torque wrench.
Sealing the Barrels
Apply a generous bead of silicone sealant between the barrels and work it in to ensure a waterproof seal.
The finished 3 piece wheels are ready for tires and installation.
