Question for you mechanics and car experts....

lowend range · #1 08-01-2010, 06:38 PM

I have a 2003 Grand Cherokee Overland and the stock rims were chrome plated which have now turned to ****

I have a slow leak in both of the rear tires. My local mechanic that I know and trust (somewhat) told me they would have to use a wire brush and scrape the chrome then put some sort of sealant around the rim. It would be about $100 ($40 per tire, give or take)

Is this the correct way to fix the problem? Do I think about getting new rims? (which will be way more expensive, no matter if I get OEM or another brand)

Any help would be appreciated.

Mike N · #2 08-01-2010, 06:52 PM

Short term it will probably work, long term you need new wheels. Chrysler has a problem with their chrome wheels (ask any PT Cruiser owner). Problem is they chrome plated aluminum, and road salt eats the two dissimilar metals up and the chrome flakes off, leaving corroded aluminum behind.

Randall · #3 08-01-2010, 07:03 PM

Time for a junk yard search for used wheels in better shape if you do not want to go new.

hartke20g · #4 08-01-2010, 07:12 PM

http://www.jegs.com/i/Cragar/260/397...oductId=754162

$40 a wheel for your 5x5" bolt pattern with 4" of backspacing. you can thank me later

if you've got some spare cash, get some new A/T tires.
if you have no lift, you can fit some 30x9.5x15 tires pretty easily.

http://www.quadratec.com/products/92609_10XX_PG.htm

i would stick with a 15x7 rim with 9.5 wide tires. either way, your current rims aren't going to cut it. if you must stay with your stock street tires (if they're still any good) then just get any rim with a 5x5 bolt pattern and about 5" or so of backspacing. however, your Jeep will look cooler with bigger tires

Mike N · #5 08-01-2010, 07:37 PM

I'd be shocked if an 03 Grand Cherokee had 15" wheels, most came with 16" from the factory. A 15" wheel may not clear the calipers.

lowend range · #6 08-01-2010, 08:34 PM

My Overland came with every option imaginable. It has 17" wheels. I've changed my tires several times in the last 7 years to top of the line Michelin. The problem is definitely the rims, not the tires.

I appreciate the help. Thanks.

hartke20g · #7 08-01-2010, 08:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike N

I'd be shocked if an 03 Grand Cherokee had 15" wheels, most came with 16" from the factory. A 15" wheel may not clear the calipers.

good point, i hadn't thought of that. although most people don't have a problem with clearing the brake calipers, the few that do are able to just grind down the caliper a bit to get the needed clearance. if the OP's worried about that, they also sell the black steelies in 16x7 i believe (or 16x8, i'm not sure). i believe that the wheels from a Rubicon package JK should fit his WJ as well.

edit: just saw your post, Lowend. good luck with whatever you decide to do.