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Model specific boards => Golf mk7 => Topic started by: Aparat on 24 December 2018, 13:14

Title: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 24 December 2018, 13:14
My fellow GTI owners, please have a look at included picture and tell me, what the hell is this ?
Got the car 2 weeks ago and only just today I had time to give it quick clean. I used Custom Wheel Cleaner and I noticed this on my alloys. Cant clean it, buff it , whatever, its just not coming off. Very disappointment at the moment

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ccMEgBIF6AjR8UVN7lLIkD7PSwxy-kU_
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: BobbyT on 24 December 2018, 13:17
What kind of wheel cleaner did you use? If it was too harsh it may have damaged the clear coat on the polished wheels.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 24 December 2018, 13:19
Autoglym Custom Wheel Cleaner which is acid free and safe for diamond cut alloys, I looked online before I got anything for my wheels  :sad:

Just to add it looks much worst on this picture then it really is but still. Once seen...  :sick:
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: kalimon on 24 December 2018, 13:35
I stupidly sprayed bug remover on my car once and it dried in just like that.
It was a b!tch to get off.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: SRGTD on 24 December 2018, 14:02
It looks as if you may have left the wheel cleaner on the wheels too long before rinsing it off and it’s dried on and stained or mildly etched the lacquered surface.

I find with regular washing (every week or couple of weeks) with a good quality ph neutral car shampoo, there’s very little need to use a dedicated wheel cleaner - it does help of your wheels are well protected with a sealant as this helps to make them easy to clean).

If you do feel the need to use a dedicated wheel cleaner, Valet Pro Bilberry wheel cleaner is ph neutral and I’ve used it on diamond cut alloys with no adverse effects to the wheels. Again, don’t leave it on to long, otherwise your wheels may be stained pink! :grin:

https://www.cleanyourcar.co.uk/valet-pro-bilberry-wheel-cleaner

The video at the link posted above shows it in action.

Going back to your current problem; I’d try polishing the affected areas gently with a very mild polish that contains very little by way of abrasives, followed up with a couple of coats of wax or sealant to protect the surface against the winter elements.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Guzzle on 24 December 2018, 14:38
I find with regular washing (every week or couple of weeks) with a good quality ph neutral car shampoo, there’s very little need to use a dedicated wheel cleaner - it does help of your wheels are well protected with a sealant as this helps to make them easy to clean).

While I appreciate this doesn't really help op with their current issue, I mostly agree with this. I haven't used a dedicated wheel cleaner for donkeys years. I've found dirt, brake dust etc all comes off easy enough with warm water, a decent quality car shampoo and a sponge with some gently applied elbow grease. There are sometimes weeks between washes yet still not had any real troubles getting them clean. Maybe a detailing expert will come along and tell me i'm not doing it right, but until I have problems getting them clean, then I don't really see the need to do anything more.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 24 December 2018, 14:49
I think SRGTD might be right, I left cleaner for too long and I was doing all wheels at the same time, don't even know why, knowing its one wheel and rinse. And then I was on phone for few minutes so makes sense, product dried on wheel and stained it.
Being OCD on car condition wont help me this Christmas I don't think :sad: Such a mistake. Guys please recommend me some products to remove it, I don't want to use something and make it worse.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: BobbyT on 24 December 2018, 14:51
Will that polish off? Might be worth having a go by hand
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 24 December 2018, 15:01
Will that polish off? Might be worth having a go by hand
It will not. Tried with clean microfibre cloth
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: hobbes22 on 24 December 2018, 15:13
I would try something like T-cut? See if you can gently take the discolour off? Then use some C5 to protect.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: SRGTD on 24 December 2018, 16:06
Will that polish off? Might be worth having a go by hand
It will not. Tried with clean microfibre cloth

I don’t think just a microfibre cloth will do it. You’ll need to use a polishing compound on the microfibre to increase the chances of removing it.

I would try something like T-cut? See if you can gently take the discolour off? Then use some C5 to protect.

I wouldn’t use T-cut; I think it would have too much ‘cut’ so there’s a chance it would leave the diamond cut surfaces with a dull appearance. I’d always recommend starting off with a mild cutting/finishing polish on a foam applicator pad and if that doesn’t correct it, move up to a medium cut polish. Always apply gently, as polishing compounds are abrasive, so being too enthusiastic could increase the risk of striking through the lacquer!

@Aparat; if you know anyone nearby with a machine polisher and a range of different polishing compounds they could you could try, I’d say there’s a good chance they could restore your wheels back to a blemish free condition (this assumes the etching is on the surface of the clear coat and not underneath it!). If not, you could try something like Megiiars Scratch X on a foam applicator pad. It looks as if it’s suitable for removing light scratches, blemishes and oxidation from paintwork, so should there’s a good chance it’ll remove what looks like light etching in the clear coat on your wheels.

https://www.cleanyourcar.co.uk/meguiars-scratch-x-v2

I’ve not used this product before so can’t vouch for how effective it might be but it’s worth a try without spending too much on products. I’d recommend using a foam applicator pad and dampening it dampening it with a little water before gently applying the polishing compound. Buff off with a soft microfibre cloth and then apply a couple of coats of sealant or wax.



 

Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: kmpowell on 24 December 2018, 18:29
I wouldn’t use t-cut. My advice would be to use some AutoGlym Super Resin Polish, which has a very mild cutting abrasive in it.

Work a bit in using a fresh dark coloured applicator and then see what (if anything) comes off. Repeat with pressure in a small place until you see any change.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: 2007GTI on 24 December 2018, 21:52
Try white spirit or petrol, that should do it.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: kalimon on 24 December 2018, 22:22
Will that polish off? Might be worth having a go by hand
It will not. Tried with clean microfibre cloth

I don’t think just a microfibre cloth will do it. You’ll need to use a polishing compound on the microfibre to increase the chances of removing it.

I would try something like T-cut? See if you can gently take the discolour off? Then use some C5 to protect.

I wouldn’t use T-cut; I think it would have too much ‘cut’ so there’s a chance it would leave the diamond cut surfaces with a dull appearance. I’d always recommend starting off with a mild cutting/finishing polish on a foam applicator pad and if that doesn’t correct it, move up to a medium cut polish. Always apply gently, as polishing compounds are abrasive, so being too enthusiastic could increase the risk of striking through the lacquer!

@Aparat; if you know anyone nearby with a machine polisher and a range of different polishing compounds they could you could try, I’d say there’s a good chance they could restore your wheels back to a blemish free condition (this assumes the etching is on the surface of the clear coat and not underneath it!). If not, you could try something like Megiiars Scratch X on a foam applicator pad. It looks as if it’s suitable for removing light scratches, blemishes and oxidation from paintwork, so should there’s a good chance it’ll remove what looks like light etching in the clear coat on your wheels.

https://www.cleanyourcar.co.uk/meguiars-scratch-x-v2

I’ve not used this product before so can’t vouch for how effective it might be but it’s worth a try without spending too much on products. I’d recommend using a foam applicator pad and dampening it dampening it with a little water before gently applying the polishing compound. Buff off with a soft microfibre cloth and then apply a couple of coats of sealant or wax.
I can vouch for scratch x but not sure it's the right product to remove that mess.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 24 December 2018, 22:41
I have a bottle of Super resin polish so will give that a go at first, then I'll try other suggestions. Thanks for that, much appreciated.
Will report back, when and if I'll get that sorted. Merry Christmas  :smiley:
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: hobbes22 on 24 December 2018, 22:53
Fingers crossed.  :smiley:
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: wolly440 on 24 December 2018, 23:08
I have a bottle of Super resin polish so will give that a go at first, then I'll try other suggestions. Thanks for that, much appreciated.
Will report back, when and if I'll get that sorted. Merry Christmas  :smiley:

Hopefully you've been a good boy this year and santa will bring you some joy  :smiley:
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: buddfridge on 25 December 2018, 07:58
You could try a micro fibre and spray some wd40 on it, if nothing works and the finish is pitted again you could try small amounts of varnish or car lacquer but dont use a brush, apply a small amount on a piece of kitchen roll in dry and worth, that will give you a very smooth finish. Best to try on a very small area first.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Jim_mk7.5 on 25 December 2018, 18:00
Definitely look likes you've let the wheel cleaner dry too much. Assume they were fine when you got the car?

I use Valetpro Bilberry wheel cleaner and most weeks Bilt Hamber Autowheel (iron remover) which is very easy. 

Get some polish on (super resin should be fine) and a suitable applicator.

If not, might need a once over with a machine polisher.

Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 25 December 2018, 20:34
Definitely look likes you've let the wheel cleaner dry too much. Assume they were fine when you got the car?

I use Valetpro Bilberry wheel cleaner and most weeks Bilt Hamber Autowheel (iron remover) which is very easy. 

Get some polish on (super resin should be fine) and a suitable applicator.

If not, might need a once over with a machine polisher.
What do you mean by suitable applicator? something like foam sponge applicator?

I think they were fine because I looked for any scratches etc before I paid so most likely I would spot them but saying that under different lighting its almost unnoticeable, and I'm thinking now last wheel I cleaned should be fine then because cleaner hasn't been left for that long at all because I rinsed it quick quickly when I was done with last wheel but who know, damage is done and too late to blame anyone.

My car being white, and I can see rust spots already  :laugh:, and living  in high rise block without good spot where I can take my car and properly clean it for few hours, it has been decided that car will be taken to detailer for some proper decontamination wash and all that and protection so at the same time they will be able to, look at wheels and if anything,  to refurbish them I suppose.

So next question will be -- Can anyone recommend someone good around Halifax/Huddersfield. Probably it will be done after winter, or sooner hopefully  if finances allow.
Thanks  :smiley:
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Jim_mk7.5 on 25 December 2018, 21:38
Yes, microfibre pad or I use some Gtechniq applicator pads which are great.

Unfortunately, White is a nightmare if it’s not had a good paint Sealant on and maintained. I’ve done a number of white cars including a less than 12 month old GTI and decontamination took a long time. Rust spots from fallout and tar spots.

Hope you get the wheels sorted. Should come up mint.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: 2007GTI on 28 December 2018, 18:54
OP, did you sort your issue?
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 28 December 2018, 20:39
OP, did you sort your issue?

I haven't got time yet to be honest. Most likely will look at it tomorrow after I change my tyres.  :evil:
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 29 December 2018, 13:04
I must be most unlucky guy in here  :sick:

Went to change tyres today and after collecting car thats what I noticed, every wheel  :sick: :sick:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1_-SeluIOECHSdqC6v1Zom-gGDYv_lNe8

https://drive.google.com/open?id=15mUy0bRxsJx8bEOQ0AYNXFbt7ZyK1efi

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1bGmPglchweoP9Kpheq9QynJS_jjyQd0H

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1FDpC4_ghwYiHNzTeX75pZzUlPBj3AzP2

Obviously I went back straight away and complained, at first they didn't admit, but later when I said ok but on rear there were still originals never touched so ye, even then they never admitted, but they changed the tone and said has to be taken via BC .
All was done via blackcircles so do you think Ill get anywhere or should I get ready to claim on my wheel insurance ( luckily I bought it from dealer  :shocked: )

Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: SRGTD on 29 December 2018, 13:23
I must be most unlucky guy in here  :sick:

Went to change tyres today and after collecting car thats what happen, every wheel  :sick: :sick:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1_-SeluIOECHSdqC6v1Zom-gGDYv_lNe8

https://drive.google.com/open?id=15mUy0bRxsJx8bEOQ0AYNXFbt7ZyK1efi

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1bGmPglchweoP9Kpheq9QynJS_jjyQd0H

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1FDpC4_ghwYiHNzTeX75pZzUlPBj3AzP2

Obviously I went back straight away and complained, at first they didn't admit, but later when I said ok but on rear there were still originals never touched so ye, even then they never admitted, but they changed the tone and said has to be taken via BC .
All was done via blackcircles so do you think Ill get anywhere or should I get ready to claim on my wheel insurance ( luckily I bought it from dealer  :shocked: )

So many stories on various forums of wheels being damaged by either careless tyre fitters or poorly maintained tyre changing equipment. Diamond cut alloys seem to be particularly susceptible to damage - more so than good old painted / powder coated wheels.

Hindsight’s a wonderful thing, but always ensure wheels are clean before taking a car to have tyres fitted. Take photos as evidence of the condition of the wheels, get the tyre fitting place to agree the condition of the wheels before they start work, and let them know you’ve taken photos. This shouldn’t really be necessary, but these days it seems to be considered OK by some tyre fitting places to damage a customer’s wheels and not accept responsibility or even tell them!

Alternatively, get your tyres fitted by a wheel refurbishment company who know how to fit tyres without damaging the wheel.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 29 December 2018, 13:33
I must be most unlucky guy in here  :sick:

Went to change tyres today and after collecting car thats what happen, every wheel  :sick: :sick:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1_-SeluIOECHSdqC6v1Zom-gGDYv_lNe8

https://drive.google.com/open?id=15mUy0bRxsJx8bEOQ0AYNXFbt7ZyK1efi

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1bGmPglchweoP9Kpheq9QynJS_jjyQd0H

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1FDpC4_ghwYiHNzTeX75pZzUlPBj3AzP2

Obviously I went back straight away and complained, at first they didn't admit, but later when I said ok but on rear there were still originals never touched so ye, even then they never admitted, but they changed the tone and said has to be taken via BC .
All was done via blackcircles so do you think Ill get anywhere or should I get ready to claim on my wheel insurance ( luckily I bought it from dealer  :shocked: )

So many stories on various forums of wheels being damaged by either careless tyre fitters or poorly maintained tyre changing equipment. Diamond cut alloys seem to be particularly susceptible to damage - more so than good old painted / powder coated wheels.

Hindsight’s a wonderful thing, but always ensure wheels are clean before taking a car to have tyres fitted. Take photos as evidence of the condition of the wheels, get the tyre fitting place to agree the condition of the wheels before they start work, and let them know you’ve taken photos. This shouldn’t really be necessary, but these days it seems to be considered OK by some tyre fitting places to damage a customer’s wheels and not accept responsibility or even tell them!

Alternatively, get your tyres fitted by a wheel refurbishment company who know how to fit tyres without damaging the wheel.
They where premier garage on BC so how should I know, just thinking if Ill get anywhere with BC.
Second thought is I still have few days left to cancel my diamond cut wheel and tyre insurance ( £600 ) and get non diamond cut wheels, because to be honest Im already sick of them. Any suggestions ?
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: SRGTD on 29 December 2018, 13:53
I must be most unlucky guy in here  :sick:

Went to change tyres today and after collecting car thats what happen, every wheel  :sick: :sick:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1_-SeluIOECHSdqC6v1Zom-gGDYv_lNe8

https://drive.google.com/open?id=15mUy0bRxsJx8bEOQ0AYNXFbt7ZyK1efi

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1bGmPglchweoP9Kpheq9QynJS_jjyQd0H

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1FDpC4_ghwYiHNzTeX75pZzUlPBj3AzP2

Obviously I went back straight away and complained, at first they didn't admit, but later when I said ok but on rear there were still originals never touched so ye, even then they never admitted, but they changed the tone and said has to be taken via BC .
All was done via blackcircles so do you think Ill get anywhere or should I get ready to claim on my wheel insurance ( luckily I bought it from dealer  :shocked: )

So many stories on various forums of wheels being damaged by either careless tyre fitters or poorly maintained tyre changing equipment. Diamond cut alloys seem to be particularly susceptible to damage - more so than good old painted / powder coated wheels.

Hindsight’s a wonderful thing, but always ensure wheels are clean before taking a car to have tyres fitted. Take photos as evidence of the condition of the wheels, get the tyre fitting place to agree the condition of the wheels before they start work, and let them know you’ve taken photos. This shouldn’t really be necessary, but these days it seems to be considered OK by some tyre fitting places to damage a customer’s wheels and not accept responsibility or even tell them!

Alternatively, get your tyres fitted by a wheel refurbishment company who know how to fit tyres without damaging the wheel.
They where premier garage on BC so how should I know, just thinking if Ill get anywhere with BC.
Second thought is I still have few days left to cancel my diamond cut wheel and tyre insurance ( £600 ) and get non diamond cut wheels, because to be honest Im already sick of them. Any suggestions ?

I would certainly push for Black Circles to pick up the cost of refurbishment at a refurbisher of your choice (I’d choose Lepsons as they’re considered to be one of the best; www.lepsons.com). With diamond cut alloys, they’ll need a full refurbishment rather than a localised SMART repair to the damaged area, so don’t accept Black Circles trying to fob you off with a SMART repair.

I dislike diamond cut alloys - they have great showroom appeal and a high ‘bling’ factor if that’s your thing, but given the choice, I would always opt for wheels with a painted / powder coated finish, which is much more durable finish than a diamond cut lacquered finish. And there’s no risk of white worm corrosion either with painted / powder coated alloys.

With both my previous and current cars, I changed my wheels from diamond cut to a set of anthracite / gun metal coloured set of painted / powder coated alloys.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 29 December 2018, 14:15
Are they based in Kent? Might be a little too far from West Yorkshire. Any recommendations closer to Huddersfield?
Regarding BC will have to wait until Monday ,if they opened, or 2nd of January  to contact them.

By the way are these alloys: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1nMnM6NlK4i9ZxDvZ4z4easkii-NzbQqt
painted or powder coated, might be obvious for some but I'm new to all this
Any websites I can have a look/buy such a wheels for GTI, must be 18 inch. If they agree to pay me I could use that money towards new wheels I suppose
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: SRGTD on 29 December 2018, 16:24
Are they based in Kent? Might be a little too far from West Yorkshire. Any recommendations closer to Huddersfield?
Regarding BC will have to wait until Monday ,if they opened, or 2nd of January  to contact them.

By the way are these alloys: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1nMnM6NlK4i9ZxDvZ4z4easkii-NzbQqt
painted or powder coated, might be obvious for some but I'm new to all this
Any websites I can have a look/buy such a wheels for GTI, must be 18 inch, don't want to go over that and have 4 new tyres choice is even easier. If they agree to pay me I might use that money towards new wheels I suppose

Yes, Lepsons are based in Gillingham in Kent. Sorry, I don’t know of any reputable wheel refurbishers in your area, but hopefully someone else on the forum who reads this thread can provide a recommendation. Can’t be 100% sure from the picture, but it looks as if the Audi wheels are powder coated. Not sure a VW centre cap would fit those though, and you’d need to establish what the wheel width and offset are, so any impacts on clearance could be determined.

On the subject of replacement wheels in general, a bit of a brain dump below that’ll hopefully be of use.

There are lots of sellers alloy wheels on the internet. If you’re considering new, then you could try sites such as rimstyle.com, performancealloys.com or wheelbasealloys.com. There will be many others. Some members on vwroc.com have bought 18” VW Pretoria replicas from cmwheels.com and IMO those wheels look good. Forum member Mkgti has a set in gunmetal grey on his Tornado Red GTI - pictures in this thread (first post on page 1);

http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=284340.msg2597909#msg2597909

For the mk7/mk7.5 Golf, wheels need to have a PCD (bolt pattern) of 5x112 and ideally a centre bore of 57.1. The centre bore can be larger as spigot rings can be fitted to the centre of the wheel to reduce the centre bore size to 57.1, ensuring the correct fit on the car’s hubs. If you’re buying new from a reputable on line retailer, they should supply a fitting kit with the wheels they sell to ensure they fit your car correctly. They should also ensure that the wheel load capabilities of any wheels for your car will comfortably support the weight of your car - the axle load of your car must be less than or equal to the load capability of any wheels you fit, otherwise you will be breaking the law and you’ll probably invalidate your insurance.

You also need to consider the offset (ET) and width of any replacement wheels to ensure you don’t experience any fouling from the inner face with the suspension or rubbing of the tyres against the wheel arch with the outer face. Pretty certain your current ‘Parker’ wheels are 7.5Jx18 ET51. If I was considering new wheels for a Golf GTI I wouldn’t go any wider than 8”, and with an 8” wheel, I’d stick with an offset that’s no more aggressive than ET45. There’s a useful calculator on the ‘Will they fit’ website at the link below. By inputting the spec of your existing and new wheel and tyre set up, it will calculate the impact on clearance of the new wheels compared to your existing ones;

https://www.willtheyfit.com

If you don’t want diamond cut wheels, avoid anything that’s described as ‘machined’ or ‘polished’ as they’re alternative terms for diamond cut.

Other considerations;
If you’re considering used wheels, all the above considerations are equally relevant. Also, I’d recommend asking the seller if the wheels have ever been buckled or cracked and repaired, as they may have been weakened as a result. If you were interested in used diamond cut alloys, bear in mind that as refurbishment of these wheels involves re-cutting the face (so removing a layer of metal from the wheel), there’s a limit to the number of times they can be refurbished - usually a maximum of two times - any more than twice and the structural integrity of the wheel could be compromised.

If you do decide to replace your wheels I wish you good luck with your search. Please update the forum on the outcome of your discussions with Black Circles.



Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 29 December 2018, 20:18
Are they based in Kent? Might be a little too far from West Yorkshire. Any recommendations closer to Huddersfield?
Regarding BC will have to wait until Monday ,if they opened, or 2nd of January  to contact them.

By the way are these alloys: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1nMnM6NlK4i9ZxDvZ4z4easkii-NzbQqt
painted or powder coated, might be obvious for some but I'm new to all this
Any websites I can have a look/buy such a wheels for GTI, must be 18 inch, don't want to go over that and have 4 new tyres choice is even easier. If they agree to pay me I might use that money towards new wheels I suppose


Yes, Lepsons are based in Gillingham in Kent. Sorry, I don’t know of any reputable wheel refurbishers in your area, but hopefully someone else on the forum who reads this thread can provide a recommendation. Can’t be 100% sure from the picture, but it looks as if the Audi wheels are powder coated. Not sure a VW centre cap would fit those though, and you’d need to establish what the wheel width and offset are, so any impacts on clearance could be determined.

On the subject of replacement wheels in general, a bit of a brain dump below that’ll hopefully be of use.

There are lots of sellers alloy wheels on the internet. If you’re considering new, then you could try sites such as rimstyle.com, performancealloys.com or wheelbasealloys.com. There will be many others. Some members on vwroc.com have bought 18” VW Pretoria replicas from cmwheels.com and IMO those wheels look good. Forum member Mkgti has a set in gunmetal grey on his Tornado Red GTI - pictures in this thread (first post on page 1);

http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=284340.msg2597909#msg2597909

For the mk7/mk7.5 Golf, wheels need to have a PCD (bolt pattern) of 5x112 and ideally a centre bore of 57.1. The centre bore can be larger as spigot rings can be fitted to the centre of the wheel to reduce the centre bore size to 57.1, ensuring the correct fit on the car’s hubs. If you’re buying new from a reputable on line retailer, they should supply a fitting kit with the wheels they sell to ensure they fit your car correctly. They should also ensure that the wheel load capabilities of any wheels for your car will comfortably support the weight of your car - the axle load of your car must be less than or equal to the load capability of any wheels you fit, otherwise you will be breaking the law and you’ll probably invalidate your insurance.

You also need to consider the offset (ET) and width of any replacement wheels to ensure you don’t experience any fouling from the inner face with the suspension or rubbing of the tyres against the wheel arch with the outer face. Pretty certain your current ‘Parker’ wheels are 7.5Jx18 ET51. If I was considering new wheels for a Golf GTI I wouldn’t go any wider than 8”, and with an 8” wheel, I’d stick with an offset that’s no more aggressive than ET45. There’s a useful calculator on the ‘Will they fit’ website at the link below. By inputting the spec of your existing and new wheel and tyre set up, it will calculate the impact on clearance of the new wheels compared to your existing ones;

https://www.willtheyfit.com

If you don’t want diamond cut wheels, avoid anything that’s described as ‘machined’ or ‘polished’ as they’re alternative terms for diamond cut.

Other considerations;
    - fitting replacement wheels in considered to be a modification for insurance purposes, so you’d need to inform your insurer, and they may charge you an increased premium.
    - some of the the cheap wheels for sale on eBay may be of questionable quality in terms of finish and structural integrity.
    - I’d always look for wheels that are TUV or JWL certified (or equivalent) as these will have been subjected to stringent safety testing. Some of the cheap replica alloys on eBay may not have been tested to these standards.
If you’re considering used wheels, all the above considerations are equally relevant. Also, I’d recommend asking the seller if the wheels have ever been buckled or cracked and repaired, as they may have been weakened as a result. If you were interested in used diamond cut alloys, bear in mind that as refurbishment of these wheels involves re-cutting the face (so removing a layer of metal from the wheel), there’s a limit to the number of times they can be refurbished - usually a maximum of two times - any more than twice and the structural integrity of the wheel could be compromised.

If you do decide to replace your wheels I wish you good luck with your search. Please update the forum on the outcome of your discussions with Black Circles.

Thanks for all this, lots of good info there so thank you very much  :smiley: . I will update when I know some more.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Jim_mk7.5 on 29 December 2018, 21:36
Your wheels are wrecked! How old is the car?!

Must admit, I'm a bit confused. So first you've ruined your own wheels and now a tyre fitter has ruined them?

All seems a bit odd to me. Maybe I've misunderstood the issue.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 29 December 2018, 22:14
Your wheels are wrecked! How old is the car?!

Must admit, I'm a bit confused. So first you've ruined your own wheels and now a tyre fitter has ruined them?

All seems a bit odd to me. Maybe I've misunderstood the issue.
Its 17 plate !! Registered in June. You have got it right. I only left some cleaner for a bit too long and that's what they did today !!
Nothing odd, just my luck like always.

When I was cleaning them on Monday surely I would noticed anything on wheels and there was nothing like that.
They changed tyres today and never said anything.After I collected car I noticed it all so went back straight to them. Obviously they said there is no way the could have done it but nobody else touched rears for example since new. Car was still on originals on rear, but surely you can tell from pictures.

I dont have to try to get some money from claiming against them , my wheels are insured but that's not the point. Point is they ruined them !!

I was saving like mad for last few years to get GTI, I don't want spend any more time doing overtimes to buy things like alloys to be honest. I want to start enjoying my new car........  :cry:

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1qDxjxhQ6F8j3bVjEf61dbAkJ7K4zAEka

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1bGmPglchweoP9Kpheq9QynJS_jjyQd0H

 :cry:
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: monkeyhanger on 30 December 2018, 22:17
Are all those gouges the same size? Look about 15-20mm long. It looks like marks made by a jemmy bar used for levering the tyre of its rim seating.

Black circles always seem to use sh!te fitters - got stung once with my Scirocco (luckily, painted wheels - easy to rectify). Always go to Costco now.

If wheel insurance doesn't play ball and BC don't offer you a remedy, I would have them powder coated some shade of Silver.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 30 December 2018, 22:26
Are all those gouges the same size? Look about 15-20mm long. It looks like marks made by a jemmy bar used for levering the tyre of its rim seating.

Black circles always seem to use sh!te fitters - got stung once with my Scirocco (luckily, painted wheels - easy to rectify). Always go to Costco now.

If wheel insurance doesn't play ball and BC don't offer you a remedy, I would have them powder coated some shade of Silver.

First and last time to be honest...Looks the same I would say.  That's what I said they used a bar for levering but we shall see.

Regarding my wheel insurance one of the exclusion say : Damage caused by third party for general maintenance .  Does it mean tyre fitters as well?
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: SRGTD on 31 December 2018, 00:37
Are all those gouges the same size? Look about 15-20mm long. It looks like marks made by a jemmy bar used for levering the tyre of its rim seating.

Black circles always seem to use sh!te fitters - got stung once with my Scirocco (luckily, painted wheels - easy to rectify). Always go to Costco now.

If wheel insurance doesn't play ball and BC don't offer you a remedy, I would have them powder coated some shade of Silver.

First and last time to be honest...Looks the same I would say.  That's what I said they used a bar for levering but we shall see what they say.

Regarding my wheel insurance one of the exclusion say : Damage caused by third party for general maintenance .  Does it mean tyre fitters as well?

I suspect it might. I’d imagine the wheel insurance cover is restricted to accidental damage that occurs while you’re driving or parking the vehicle such as scuffs from kerbing. Many policies don’t cover pothole damage such as buckling or cracking, some exclude diamond cut alloys and some only provide SMART repairs, rather than a full refurbishment. So these policies might seem to be a good idea, but they can be quite restrictive in terms of what they offer.

Some alloy wheel insurance policies have a specific exclusion of damage caused through the fitting of tyres; ALA, Direct GAP and GAP Insurance all have such an exclusion in their policy.

It could be argued that tyre fitter damage is covered if your alloy wheel insurance doesn’t have a similar specific exclusion, although your insurer would probably argue that tyre fitter damage is ‘damage caused by a third party for general maintenance’.

Hopefully Black Circles will do the right thing, and acknowledge the damage to your wheels was caused by their tyre fitter, and pay for your wheels to be refurbished at a place of your choice.

Good luck. Please let us know how you get on.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 04 January 2019, 12:57
So BC has been good. They are going to authorise repairs.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 07 January 2019, 15:54
Repair has been booked in. I have a week to decide diamond cut or powder coat. Not sure how these wheels will look powder coated, so maybe one of you have any pictures or links I can look at?
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: SRGTD on 07 January 2019, 19:01
@Aparat; good outcome with Black Circles. Good to see they’re doing the right thing.

I don’t think I’ve seen any pictures or actual examples of Parker alloys that have been refurbished in a powder coated finish. Does the wheel refurbishment company you’re using have a software package on their pc’s / tablets, that they can use to reproduce the Parker alloys with a powder coated finish in your preferred colour to help you make your decision?

Only you can really decide what finish to get them refurbished in. A painted / powder coated finish will be much more durable than diamond cut, but could put off some would-be buyers when the time comes to sell your car.

Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 07 January 2019, 19:09
@Aparat; good outcome with Black Circles. Good to see they’re doing the right thing.

I don’t think I’ve seen any pictures or actual examples of Parker alloys that have been refurbished in a powder coated finish. Does the wheel refurbishment company you’re using have a software package on their pc’s / tablets, that they can use to reproduce the Parker alloys with a powder coated finish in your preferred colour to help you make your decision?

Only you can really decide what finish to get them refurbished in. A painted / powder coated finish will be much more durable than diamond cut, but could put off some would-be buyers when the time comes to sell your car.

I will ask them If they can do such a thing on Monday. I always PX my car with main dealers to avoid hassle selling my cars privately, so they might not like it being powder coated for example when it comes to it.
Something to think about for a week   :laugh:
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Jim_mk7.5 on 08 January 2019, 10:26
As much as diamond cut are a pain to maintain if scuffed, changing to powder coated might just not look right. Although I quite like the Parkers, think they probably work as diamond finish. But as you are keeping your car for 5 years best bet to do what you think you will prefer and what will be easier to look after for you  :smiley:
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Spud122 on 08 January 2019, 13:35
There was a 2015 GTi in Red for sale at the dealers when i bought mine that had the wheels powder coated gloss black.
I didn't like them.
IMO the wheel design works as Diamond cut which is what designed for, but i'm not sure it will look good as a solid colour wheel due to the 'spokes' being so wide.

Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Adam T7 on 13 January 2019, 15:23
Just washed my 4 week old GTI PP - used neat zip wax and agitated with a brush, left for a few mins, power washed away, look great with no harsh chemicals
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 13 January 2019, 15:35
Just washed my 4 week old GTI PP - used neat zip wax and agitated with a brush, left for a few mins, power washed away, look great with no harsh chemicals
Good to know it worked for you. For me its only shampoo from now on  :whistle:
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: MrJollygood on 13 January 2019, 16:22
Slightly off-topic but I'm having my 18" Austins re-furbed next week  (£300 for the set, seemed pretty good deal I thought) - just wondering what products people would recommend I use to seal and protect them when I get them back?

Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Aparat on 13 January 2019, 16:25
Slightly off-topic but I'm having my 18" Austins re-furbed next week  (£300 for the set, seemed pretty good deal I thought) - just wondering what products people would recommend I use to seal and protect them when I get them back?

Good question actually.
I'm having my wheels done tomorrow- 3 days job, so wondering the same.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: mcmaddy on 13 January 2019, 16:57
Gtechniq stuff is brilliant, got it on mine and makes them so much easier to wash and keep clean.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: Watts on 13 January 2019, 17:03
Gtechniq stuff is brilliant, got it on mine and makes them so much easier to wash and keep clean.

Just what I was about to say. I use the C2v3, 2 coats, quick and easy to apply and lasts well. Also very good on all glass. They do a wheel specific sealant but I haven't tried that.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: mcmaddy on 13 January 2019, 17:07
Detailer did mine over 2 years ago along with the ceramic paint coating and it's still brilliant today.
Title: Re: Parker Alloys issue?
Post by: hobbes22 on 13 January 2019, 19:03
I used Gtechnic C5 initially and then C2v3 when i wash afterwards. They always come up lovely.