Clear Coat or Polish

[Otto Man]

I think I'm gonna take my wheels over to Wheel Worx for restoration tomorrow and I have a question.
I notice that some folks have had their stock wheels stripped and they polish the aluminum rather than had new clear coat sprayed. How much of cleaning chore does this produce? I mean, is it a headache? Or just a quick buff with NeverDull every couple weeks keeps em looking spiffy?
Thanks,
Chris

[KevinK]

I can't comment on the polished look. If you decide to clear coat them, consider having the backside done too. Cut outs too. Much easier to clean that way.

[vrinner]

I had mine polished

and first off, the guy didn't do that great of a job. Nothing like the chrome look.

As far as keeping them clean, my polish job is about 15 years old and they definatly need a new polish job. Maybe polish then clear coat?

[SVOeric]

If you want them to stay nice looking, polish, and then clear-coat them would be your best bet.

[Eyelawdoc]

I would polish them (or have them polished ). Then clear powder coat them for ease of maintenance and durability.

[Otto Man]

That's what I'm gonna do. What is the difference between Clear Coat and Clear Powder Coat?
The only problem is Wheel Worx (here in Maryland) has the wackiest business hours I have ever encountered. Open till 11:00 AM on Saturdays, and 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM M-F. (I guess they fish in the afternoon)
So I gotta split from work at noon on Monday. But.....by next Saturday I should be ready for Carlilse.
Thanks for the advise!
Chris

[Eyelawdoc]

Clear coat can either be a spray-on product (usually a catalyized urethane clear enamel) or a powder coat product. I like the powcer coat for it's edge in durability. However both will produce good results if applied properly.