Wheel Welding
Generally when there is some significant damage to the wheel we would tend to perform a weld repair. This is because the objective is to create a strong repair without softening the alloy itself.
Situations where a wheel weld is appropriate include:
- cracks
- splits
- chunks of rim missing or bent out of shape
As with all of our alloy wheel repair services we will only weld a wheel where we are confident that the repaired wheel will be safe for everyday use. If we have any concerns about potential risks then we will tell you once the wheel has been initially inspected.
Ask Us For A Wheel Inspection
Even if you think that the wheel is too badly damaged to be welded you should ask us to assess the wheel and report back on the feasibility of repairing it which will often save you a significant amount of money versus buying a new wheel. Our technicians are highly skilled at wheel welding and you will be amazed at what they can achieve.
The Welding Process
If appropriate, the damaged area will be cut and shaped to receive the weld. It will then be welded inside and out using welding equipment which minimises the amount of heat transfered into the alloy but with the intention of maximising the strength of the weld without unduely softening the alloy.
We always weld in such a way that the repair is at least flush with the surface of the wheel. The wheel will then be passed to a lathe operative so that the welded area can be machined back to create a seamless finish. If necessary the welded areas will then be sanded and smoothed off by hand to complete the job.
Any welds to cracks on the rear of the rim are ground out and filled with weld from both sides for maximum strength. This is NOT ground flat, this is to ensure the strength is kept on the weaker side of the wheel. Unlike other companies we do not just weld over the top of a crack for a quick fix. The Lepsons difference
Wheel Welding Prices
Welding Only: 2 to 3 Day Service
One wheel = £60 + vat
(Add £15 + vat per wheel if tyres are supplied with the wheels)
Welding Only: Same Day Service
One wheel = £85 + vat
Welding when performed as part of a full refurbishment
Simply add £15 + vat per wheel to the cost of refurbishing the entire wheel.
Important Notes
As explained, the process of welding an alloy wheel involves heating the damaged area to apply the weld. On the inside of the wheel this may not be visible but if on the outside then highly likely that the paint finish will be affected. In these cases the recommendation is to have the wheel fully refurbished. If we need to straighten or weld a wheel during the refurbishment process then the additional cost is only £15 + vat per wheel.
The process of welding a wheel may result in us finding that the wheel is damaged beyond our expectations. We will apply our skill and experience but it is possible that the wheel will not be repairable.