Aluminum Truck Rims

Question: what’s prettier than a sweet, customized pickup rolling down the highway with rims so bright and shiny they’re practically blinding? Answer: nothing! So you’ve already decided that you want those shiny rims on your pickup. Awesome; but do you go with steel or aluminum? What are the drawbacks and advantages of each?

Aluminum Rims for Trucks - In a Nutshell
The sleek designs and light weight build at a somewhat affordable (find a sale) price makes aluminum rims a great choice. They come in multiple styles and sizes and are extremely reliable. Though aluminum alloy rims can be a bit pricey to replace, they are also very repairable. Some sand paper and clear coat will usually get you up and running. Directions for repairs can easily be found on the Internet and, although I found several different techniques of repair, they all revolved around the same method. While browsing through 4Wheelpart.com , Mickey Thompsons and Diamo Wheels caught my eye (truthfully, they all caught my eye). Then again, I prefer chrome to matching paint. Polishing all that chrome can be kind of a drag but you can psych yourself up for it. Choose a bright, warm, sunny day; set up a cooler of icy cold brews, and get to work. Be sure to do this in an area where you’re sure to get the most ooooh’s and aaaah’s possible from passers-by. Soon you’ll be whistling while you work and shakin’ it while you shine! Pride can be a serious motivator. Since you probably spent more on the aluminum rims than you would have on steel, the good news is; due to the lighter weight of the aluminum, you’re going to see more efficient fuel economy. You’re already taking a hit in that area due to the simple fact that you drive a truck. Why not save a few pennies here and there whenever possible, particularly with gas prices being through the roof.

Some Say They’ll Stick with Steel
If money is a deciding factor, steel might be the way for you to go. If you’re an off roader, steel is stronger but aluminum should be strong enough to take whatever you would give it; although, aluminum wheels will mar more than steel, they won’t rust. Steel rims are also heavier by several pounds and are available in fewer impressive designs than aluminum. Steel rims have been around forever and will undoubtedly last you a long time. Again, if your truck spends more time off road than on, keep in mind that the dents in a steel wheel can be bent back (in the case of really serious off roading) but if you’re sticking to the off road trails your aluminum wheels should suffice. I recently heard of a guy that sold his stylish, shimmering alloy rims on Ebay or Craig’s list and made enough to buy not only the necessary four steel wheels, but a full size fifth wheel for his spare; and nice ones at that.

Weighing the pros and cons of aluminum vs. steel frequently boils down to price, appearance and durability. Prioritizing those three characteristics will more than likely be a determining factor in your choice. If you’re already driving one of those gorgeous, customed out beauties, price is probably not your first concern; the aluminum rims will complement the rest of your truck nicely. If however, you’re a serious off roader and your truck is usually a good testament to that (muddy, some dents, jacked up), durable steel will suit your needs and still be in some decent designs.