A Rim Repair is a machine used to correct defected rims/mags. It corrects and levels the rims and makes the surface smooth using the lathe. The lathe unit is designed to clean crusty sections of the repaired rim surface.
It depends upon the case and the situation, but rims can very often be repaired.
If you find that your wheels are damaged, they will have to be either repaired or replaced. Your mechanic can generally repair a bent or broken rim most of the time.
If your rim is bent, getting it straightened shouldn’t be an issue. But if it is cracked or the lug holes are damaged, you may not be able to repair it.
Rim repair – FAQ
How do I know how to operate my rim repair?
Every rim repair comes with an owners/operation manual that provides the operator instructions. We have also compiled How to repair damaged rims to help out with the principles of rim repair and safety. There is also a You Tube demonstration you can watch.
What is a Rim Repair machine?
It is a machine used to correct defected rims/mags which due to pothole damage, are out of precise run-out mode. It corrects and levels the rims run-out and makes the surface smooth using the lathe. The lathe unit is designed to clean crusty sections of the repaired rim surface.
Does a rim repair machine come with a polisher?
The IMRP from Integrated Marketing definitely comes with a polishing adapter to polish up repaired rims and make them look shiny and new again.
Can rims can be repaired?
It depends upon the amount of damage/ dents and the situation, but rims can very often be repaired. If you find that your wheels are causing vibrations, they will have to either be repaired or replaced. A Technician can generally repair a bent rim most of the time. If your rim is bent, getting it straightened shouldn’t be an issue. But if it is cracked or the lug holes are damaged, you may not be able to repair it.
Can you fix a curbed rim?
The process to repair a curbed rim also can vary but typically involves removing all dirt, paint and protective finished. The damaged area has to be sanded down, and sanded / buffed to a smooth finish to remove scratches.
What is a curbed rim?
It’s a colloquial term used in the car world to describe the situation when a vehicle’s rim or hubcap has sustained damage from being rubbed along a curb, often referred to as curb rash.
Why are my rims damaged?
Curb & cosmetic – this type of rim damage occurs when you scuff your wheel on a pavement or also known as curb rash, other reasons may include driving your vehicle on a flat tyre or from road debris. Damage is usually found on the lip, spokes or face of the wheel.
Bent wheel – bent wheel damage occurs on the inner lip of the mag but can also sometimes occur on the outer lip, spoke or face. Bent rim damage to the vehicle’s rim is usually caused by potholes, roadside curbs or other road hazards.
Corrosion & delamination – corrosion to the motor vehicle’s mag wheels is generally caused by roadside chemicals, salts, dust from the brakes and tyre sealants, however there are so many other external elements that can cause wheel corrosion.
What are the warning signs of a bent rim?
Rim issues can often be easy to notice. Depending on the damage, you may hear a thumping sound when you drive or feel a constant vibration through your steering wheel. If you miss these cues but notice problems with your car’s handling or changes in your fuel consumption, take a look at your wheels. Look for unusual wear on your tyres and check each wheel if it’s cracked, broken, dented or bent. On top of causing uneven wear on your tyres, damaged rims can
make your car harder to handle and may reduce your fuel consumption. In the best-case scenario, this means that you will need to replace your tyres sooner; in a worst-case scenario, you risk a potentially deadly tyre blowout. Avoid these risks altogether by being proactive about rim maintenance. If you find that your rims are damaged, they will have to be either repaired or replaced.
Can a bent rim be repaired?
A bent rim can be repaired, a bent rim can be heated to soften up the metal for repair. A hydraulic ram is used to straighten the center and to move any bends in the rim’s lip. Additional material can be welded onto the rim if too much has been lost due to an accident. Metal workers use a lathe to further straighten out the rim and to remove any additional material. Lastly the rim is polished and coated with either a paint or a clear finish.
Can an alloy rim be repaired?
The repair of aluminum is one of the quickest repair jobs for rims. Because aluminum is so malleable, it can be heated up and reshaped in a matter of hours without losing any of its strength.
Many things can go wrong with aluminum alloy wheels, from corroded bead seats, a checked outer rim, creased barrel, cracked wheel flange, scratched or broken wheel rim. These problems can reduce fuel consumption, put greater wear on the tyre and increase the chance of a blowout.
It is far less expensive to take your damaged aluminum alloy rim to an experienced metal repair shop than to purchase a new wheel. A quality repair job can usually be done in a matter of hours. Don’t assume that your damaged rims are beyond repair. There are ways to fix just about every type of damage to an alloy rim.
How can I avoid damage to my rims?
Always drive on tyres that are properly inflated and in good condition. This will give you the best chance of absorbing the impact safely. Drive defensively. Slow down when you’re on an unfamiliar or rough road, and avoid distracted driving. Be alert to what’s ahead, and make sure you keep enough distance between you and the vehicle in front so you can see what’s coming. Be cautious about leaving your lane. Swerving to avoid a pothole is one thing on a country lane, but it’s another at high speed. Using good judgement and always be conscious of traffic around you.
Recognize that though you miss the missed the first pothole, there may be more waiting. It may be safer to just brace yourself and drive straight through the hole. When you can’t avoid a pothole, take your foot off the accelerator and straighten your steering wheel. Don’t brake, this will allow you to maintain the most control during the impact.
What voltage do I need to operate a rim repair?
The IMRP from Integrated Marketing is single phase (220v).
Does a rim repair machine have a lathe?
The IMRP from Integrated Marketing comes with a lathe.
What is a lathe used for on a rim repair machine?
The lathe is used to cut off any excess imperfections once you have repaired the rim, making it flush.
What types of rim materials can be repaired?
The IMRP rim repair machine from Integrated Marketing is ideal for:
Aluminium alloy rims (the most common type)
Mild steel rims
Chrome-plated rims (to a limited extent—surface finish may not be restored)
Note: Magnesium and carbon fibre rims are not recommended for repair due to their brittle structure.
Is rim straightening safe?
Yes, as long as:
The rim isn’t cracked beyond repair
The rim is repaired using proper heat and hydraulic straightening tools like the IMRP
The integrity of the rim is tested afterward (for cracks, warping or imbalance)
A professionally repaired rim that passes a safety inspection can be as reliable as a new one.
Can I balance a rim after it’s been repaired?
Absolutely. In fact, balancing is a key step after rim repair. The lathe on the IMRP ensures a smooth surface finish, allowing the rim to be balanced correctly for safe driving.
What accessories are included with the IMRP rim repair machine?
Integrated Marketing’s IMRP typically includes:
Hydraulic straightening system
Lathe cutting unit
Polishing adapter
Mounting cones
Support brackets for different rim sizes
How do I check if a rim is still out of round after repair?
Use a dial gauge or laser pointer on the IMRP to measure the run-out. Acceptable tolerance levels differ by vehicle type but are typically within 0.5 mm. Excessive run-out can result in vibrations and tyre wear.
What size rims can the IMRP handle?
The IMRP rim repair machine can typically handle rims ranging from 10″ to 24″, covering most passenger and light commercial vehicles.
Can I offer rim repair as a standalone business?
Yes! With a machine like the IMRP, many entrepreneurs start mobile or workshop-based rim repair businesses, offering:
Pothole-damage repairs
Cosmetic refurbishments
Rim polishing and detailing
Fleet maintenance for taxis or bakkies