I have a set of 3 piece wheels that have the center painted/powder coated and wanted to re-do them. The local shop is pricing the job at $360 install/uninstall and $800 to powder coat them.

I wanted to see if I could just unscrew the center piece myself (looks like torx screws and a nut in the rear) and it should come off, but I'm not sure if there's really anything else to it (special seals, glue, etc...)

Has anyone tried to remove the center spokes themselves or can anyone chime in and let me know if there are any special tools and equipment to complete the job?

Thanks in advance!

 

You really need the torque specs from the wheel maker (If they will give them to you), new screws and bolts (the threads stretch over time), and a jig to ensure that unless the screws are piloted that they are being put back together straight. Unless you have all of this, and practice, it's unlikely that you will get them back together straight, or without hardware coming off in the future, or both. It's more complicated than it looks.

 

Also as far as I know you are supposed to use some kind of silicone sealant/adhesive between the barrels. I think they torque the bolts using a machine and not by hand.

 

I would leave that job to one experienced in separating and restoring those wheels.

Not only could you get vibrations and experience uneven torquing as stated you could end up with constant air leaks.