mrmagloo

I posted this question in the middle of another thread and it got buried. I'm looking to pull the trigger soon, so I really need some feedback.

I just love those C7 Z06 Chrome Replica's. I'm seeing there are two manufacturers of these wheels out there. Factory Reproductions which I think are traditional Triple Plated Chrome, and OEM Wheels that uses PVD, which is some kind of new fangled Powder Coating.

Seems the PVD versions are about 20-25% less costly, and they list a whole bunch of benefits from lighter weight, zero chance of flaking, peeling or pitting, etc. Supposedly, they are easier to care for too. They have a clear coat, and you maintain them very much like OEM clear coated wheels. I don't drive mine in the snow/salt, so I'm not sure about those benefits, but my stockers are peeling and that is obviously a big concern.

However, I'm not getting a clear answer on how they look side by side against real chrome. Has anyone seen the PVD versions in person and been able to compare the two?

Thanks!

bigcypress

we just went through this as well . we opted for the ''factory reproduction'' wheels . they were just put on yesterday so other than saying they look terrific i shouldn't comment . i think what wife chose were c6 zr1 wheels and bf goodrich tire recommended by tire rack but purchased locally . wheels were $807 shipped from california to ohio . forgot the seller but will look it up if you are interested , they were nice to deal with on phone . good luck . . . peace ...gonna post some pix when son will take time to do it [hopefully today ] as i am not good on computer .

mrmagloo

Yes, if you could please Private Message your vendor and cost info, I'd greatly appreciate that! Thanks!

chasboy

I was going to get wheels thru the wheel shop who diagnosed my cracked oem rear wheels. We were looking at both. I nearly settled on the PVD, but I backed off when one of the shop owners told me that one must be careful with them or they will scratch pretty easily. As far as weight differences, I'd like to see the stats. I have the Factory Reproductions ones from PFYC, and was treated royally. They look GREAT!

phil hunter

I have a set of PVD wheels on my other car. Cannot tell them from "real" chrome. They are no easier to scratch that the OEM polished aluminum Thin Spoke wheels that originally came on my '01, or the black painted wheels that are so fashionable now.


Phil

sterw

Factory Reproducton Wheels are the way to go. I got mine from Keith at Florida Speed Shop. They are flawless and Keith was great to deal with.

wheelman1944

I was the owner operator of a custom wheel and tire store for many many years...I chose triple chrome for the obvious reason....after about a year you'll wish you chose the real thing to,..honestly....there is a big difference in the depth of finish and side by side comparison would show the difference....the other thing......its a Corvette....really.....fake chrome?

57gman

Vetteman Jack

This was a thread from last summer - has some info about PVD vs chrome in it.

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...?highlight=pvd

There may be others that have been posted to the forum too - just use the search function and type in PVD.

mrmagloo

Thanks guys.

phil hunter

For those who are interested in the PVD process, here is a link:



PHil

PFYC

This is JT from PFYC.com... Im here to take care of your Corvette needs...

mrmagloo

You are welcome to PM me your best quote for the stock 17/18 in chrome. Thx.

chasboy

Which one do you want?

mrmagloo

I thought you said above that PFYC only carried the Factory Reproduction versions that are the chrome.

PFYC

Yes, We only carry the Factory Reproduction wheels.. 17/18 Chrome $995.00 shipped with chrome lug nuts.. Free Shipping

chasboy

They have a variety of versions, not only the c7z06 wheel. I love mine and I'm glad I have real chrome.

SirBlackSpur

I ordered my set two years ago and they are PVD. They are not as durable as traditional chrome and don't have that deep luster/mirror reflection. They are higher maintenance and a little harder to clean and keep clean. Had I known there were two different versions when I ordered mine I would have gone with traditional chrome. But, Eagle One makes a PVD, spray on wheel cleaner than makes everything so much easy. Just like their Hot Chrome cleaner. Just spray on, spray off and the wheel is spotless. I used a regular towel to dry them and they look brand new. It's just like all other powder-coated wheels except with a chrome-ish finish. Most can't tell the difference on the car. I'm tempted to try a spray-on protectant to help against brake dust, moisture/water spots, and everything else that gets on a wheel and can diminish or eat away at its finish.

mrmagloo

Thanks for the feedback Sir!

SirBlackSpur

You're welcome. I hope this helps someone decide.