MK5 Golf GTI

All Things Mk5 => How to Guides / Troubleshooting => Topic started by: RedRobin on December 01, 2008, 09:35:06 pm

Title: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 01, 2008, 09:35:06 pm
....

All BBS alloy wheels which are diamond-cut with a clear lacquer finish are prone to what's called 'white worm'. Even with regular washing and maintenance, the inevitable stone chips or slightest kerbing can break the lacquer seal and moisture can ingress and the white worm will start and slowly spread. In Winter, road salts etc do not help! In fact the UK is known for it's particularly corrosive version of road grit compared with Europe - Funny how Europe, especially Germany, is so much kinder to the motorist than the UK!

The strength or safety of the alloy wheel is NOT compromised but it looks horrible:

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FWhiteWorm.jpg&hash=d65127db3f0c0a18f5735411e7082c4b0cae9c93)

VW are well aware of this issue but have done nothing to solve it or change the design in spite of numerous warranty claims awarded to customers with the problem. There are several options you have for killing the dreaded white worm:

OPTION 1:

If you are still within warranty, complain to your VW dealer and you are most likely to get the wheels refurbed/replaced by them. BUT, only the  individual wheels which you have not kerbed. Also, only if your car was originally supplied with diamond-cut Monza's. My car was originally supplied with painted Monza 17's and the 18's were bought later, so my claim was rejected by VW UK (not my dealer) in spite of polite but vigorous efforts under warranty. I decided it wasn't worth spending money in going to court over the issue.

OPTION 2:

Refurb the wheel yourself as shown here: http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=63.0
But this is not for the faint hearted and requires hours of elbow grease.

OPTION 3:

Buy an expensive set of new Monza's from VW or buy replicas as replacements - But be aware that replicas are not BBS Hollow Technology in their construction.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fkk284%2FGreenouse%2F2008_0426Image0019.jpg&hash=c33bf2f64445190bb5a19e77d37b722fe3a779c7)

^ Huffs offer a very nice black version replica which matches the European Edition 30 BBS from VW.

OPTION 4:

Find a reputable wheel renovation specialist such as Pristine, Lepsons, A1 in Wolverhampton, [more to be added]
If you find one who is familiar with and has experience of Monza 18's you're usually onto a winner. They can either refurb back to exactly how they were when brand spanking new, or custom finish for you. Either way, you'll be without your alloys for about 3-4 working days.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FRED_OSIR_5.jpg&hash=b96f27f51ba1802a6bf0b401eff7262fef20481f)

^ Standard Monza 18" diamond-cut clear lacquer and with grey 'inserts'.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FDustCap.jpg&hash=54ab0c666e84ff999a80886e7abe6cff4d25ab78)

^ Showing the grey 'inserts' and clean edge join to the diamond-cut face. This can only be achieved by firstly powdercoating the whole wheel in grey and then cutting back to the raw alloy on the face and then lacquering it.

Our very own Rim King of the forum, Nathan aka Greenouse, has gone the custom route....Several times! I guess it's a male equivalent of ladies who love shoes.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fkk284%2FGreenouse%2F2008_0518Image0015.jpg&hash=b97903b9bf2f177dc439167d9f88370c156fe5fd)

^ An example of custom finish done for Nathan by A1 Wheel Renovations in Wolverhampton.

Nathan's latest custom design matches that of the pre-production Mk6 GTI as shown in Paris and also the GTI W12:

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FGTIW12_Monza.jpg&hash=1d74f288fa4fd5793e03b19201a3baed32e2f552)

^ By painting the inserts black, the wheel appears bigger.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fkk284%2FGreenouse%2Fnewwheels1.jpg&hash=3c31d138fd9ece48e75ebe5b63ef8a63ad0b1bd6)

^ This is achieved in the same way that BBS manufacture for VW - But in this case, the wheels are painted black all over and then diamond-cut back and clear lacquered. This also enables a visually clean edge between painted inserts and face and is the only way to get this result. If you wish to mix a painted face with a different coloured painted insert, you have a major problem achieving a clean edge and most professional refurbishers will only undertake it, if at all, entirely at your risk - You pay however badly it comes out.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fkk284%2FGreenouse%2F2008_1201Image0003.jpg&hash=e479400e0186b78951e448ea82a900b323e2245e)

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fkk284%2FGreenouse%2F2008_1129Image0075.jpg&hash=036acab756d3259b52e655486d0096e2256231b2)

OPTION 5:

Custom finish but powdercoated entirely without any cutting back to diamond-cut face. This totally avoids future white worm problems and is what I decided to do:

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FPowdercoatedMonza18.jpg&hash=7bf9db5e70bcc791351c4ea67bb962c81e655164)

^ They are first painted black and then powdercoated Smoked Chrome (a shade of silver) such that the face has slightly more silver than the inserts. This results in some visual subtleties.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FSmokedChrome1.jpg&hash=171d7dbcd946991e87f8add5d1fcef289432a43e)

^ Dirty after about 200 miles of motorway muck, but not showing it.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FAP_Brake_17s_1.jpg&hash=94377ca46ef4242d9c81291efb64621606343b6f)

^ The brighter silver of standard VW Silver on the Monza 17's.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FWhiteRedGrey_alloys.jpg&hash=00a62c05fa49718d049c03ae16ae9ecb9ffd66a2)

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FPowdercoat_Bridport.jpg&hash=c74abf3053e221dc310c72840bb2f8d538afd915)

^ The effect of powdercoating Smoked Chrome overall, the inserts are more easily seen but also add an exciting visual effect. It's swings and roundabouts and a matter of personal preference but it has been my aim to retain the integrity of the Monza as an important component in the Mk5 GTI's identity while killing the white worm for good!

:happy2:

Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: SteveP on December 01, 2008, 09:44:26 pm
ANother great write up Robin :happy2:

Thanks for your continued contribution  :smiley:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: WhiteGTI on December 01, 2008, 09:44:51 pm
Great write-up Robin!

Nice to see that my car is part of the write-up also hahaha!!!!  :smiley: :smiley:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Greeners on December 01, 2008, 10:01:36 pm
 :happy2: :happy2: Good work there Robin and a great guide for the unsure  :happy2:

Oh and some stunning wheels pictured there  :grin: :wink:

I'd love to see a decent pic of yours clean and in the sunlight  :party:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 01, 2008, 10:17:12 pm
I'd love to see a decent pic of yours clean and in the sunlight  :party:

....Just waiting for better weather and a chance to clean the whole car.

I've yet to see those new alloys clean in the sun.

:happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: 182_blue on December 02, 2008, 09:38:51 am
Nice write up  :happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: JPC on December 02, 2008, 09:48:18 am
good work robin!
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 02, 2008, 11:23:09 am
^^^^

Thanks everyone! It feels good to know one's efforts are appreciated :grouphug:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 02, 2008, 01:05:06 pm
....

A1 Wheel Renovation:

After hearing of their excellent reputation, I had planned on using Pristine in the Milton Keynes area. But, when I visited them, I found their customer service somewhat indifferent. In spite of many on this forum telling me I should get on and refurb my Monza's, it wasn't a priority over my cracked wastegate housing or failed KoniFSD's!

So it was when Nathan posted his latest rims from A1 Wheel Renovation that I felt inspired and especially as their location in Wolverhampton was close to our first forum meet near Stafford - I could combine my journey and show off my new rims to everyone.

I phoned A1 (01902 871422) and asked for Nigel as Nathan had recommended. I was greeted by a friendly voice with a very heavy Black Country accent but he was the actual painter and clearly knew his trade and all about Monza's. So I booked myself in for the Wednesday lunchtime, folded my rear seats down and loaded my spare set of Monza 17's.

My SatNav ensured I had no problems finding A1's premises. On arrival I was somewhat surprised because it looked like the premises of a back street minicab firm of the sort where most of the drivers have just stepped off an aeroplane! The image in my brain was not dispelled when I saw nothing but Asians including a very friendly smiling Nigel. I couldn't help noticing that Nigel was wearing glasses with large GABBANA lettering on the sides - A bit bling for my own personal taste but each to their own. Access into their small backyard was extremely tight and so any thoughts of excuses and a quick escape were pointless. Anyway, Nathan had used these guys more than once.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FRED_Wolverhampton_1.jpg&hash=c4f807426b9c4e434684f1763361f3e67af1aa6f)

While Steve swopped my 18's for the 17's I had brought, Nigel offered me a hot drink (nothing like that from Pristine!) and we started to discuss what shade etc I desired. Nigel and I quickly found that we were on exactly the same wavelength (except in choice of style of spectacles!)

We looked at some of his sample alloys and took a couple out to compare with my Monza's. It's all about lighting and how light falls on the shape of a wheel. Nigel explained why he couldn't paint a different colour on the 'inserts' (grey on the stock VW Monza 18) but that he would try and grade the Smoked Chrome silver over the black in those areas.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FSmokedChrome3.jpg&hash=ca9e4cb217bf39c6cd2a9d24394b7f5fbca84bb5)

I am extremely pleased with the results and I have yet to see them in bright sunny weather when the car is clean - The roads are wet and very mucky at the moment. The Smoked Chrome is possibly better described as Gunmetal but the inserts can catch the light very brightly. They certainly don't show the dirt very easily.

Nigel phoned me on the Friday to tell me had finished my wheels in time for swopping back over on the Saturday morning on my way to the meet.

I have absolutely no hesitation in wholeheartedly recommending Nigel's family business A1 Minicabs A1 Wheel Renovation in Wolverhampton. They don't have a web site or email as yet.


Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: NEWEY on December 04, 2008, 05:30:54 pm
they look great robin and great write up also :)
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Snoopy on December 04, 2008, 07:58:35 pm
Looking great :happy2:
Geoff.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Lean on December 04, 2008, 11:06:38 pm
Nice info - cheers

One question:

I've kerbed all 4 of my factory fitted 18"Monzas  :ashamed: I think there is whiteworm in other areas.. does anyone think I could get them replaced? (still in warranty)  :smiley:

Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 04, 2008, 11:15:27 pm
One question:

I've kerbed all 4 of my factory fitted 18"Monzas  :ashamed: I think there is whiteworm in other areas.. does anyone think I could get them replaced? (still in warranty)
  :smiley:

....They will carefully inspect each wheel and any kerbing is down to you and considered to be your misuse/negligence and therefore excluded from warranty protection.

You can try - But don't hold your breath!
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Tarmac_Terrorist on December 04, 2008, 11:17:01 pm
Look very nice RR.   8)

This has to be the best option to eliminate the worms for anyone who covers fairly high miles or doesn't want to wash their wheels weekly. I'm paranoid about mine catching worms depite regular cleaning / sealing and I would be interested to know who has / hasn't suffered this issue.
I wondered if there were many who have still had the worming issue even with an extreme care /protection regime

Looking forward to seeing some 'sunny day clean wheels' pics   :happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 05, 2008, 05:06:18 pm
^^^^

I've just washed my 'new' wheels for the first time. This pic was taken late afternoon and without any direct sunlight:

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FSmokedChrome_daylight.jpg&hash=d5c5da89bb7e80444155ad0027826b60cce7a4cb)

If it's nice weather tomorrow at the Tyresmoke/Biali meet near Portsmouth (all welcome! - Good food!! Hurdy!!!!) I'll grab some more pics.

:happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Greeners on December 05, 2008, 05:57:44 pm
Love the way the light makes the wheel look different colours Robin, stroke of genius that  :happy2:

Should be sunny down south tomorrow so I'll look forward to the pics  :party:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 05, 2008, 06:10:49 pm
....

I've picked up a stone chip on a rear wheel already! A glancing nick with a decreasing 'tail' - I think I know where/when it happened - A fast overtake and stone chips washed out into the road.

I'm told clear varnish dabbed-on is the answer - Any specific suggestions, please?

Thanks :happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Greeners on December 05, 2008, 06:16:18 pm
That's not good already mate  :sad:

Give it a good polish/wax before you apply any laquer as you may be able to polish most of it out as the paint is still very fresh.  :happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Tarmac_Terrorist on December 05, 2008, 09:19:43 pm
They look much better than I initially thought they might Robin.

They seem to really catch the light well and emphasise the crisp design - good call   :happy2:

 I read somewhere that VW have chosen black as the inner colour for the MKVI GTI Monza's as it is supposed to make the wheel appear bigger than it is.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Greeners on December 05, 2008, 09:52:07 pm
They look much better than I initially thought they might Robin.

They seem to really catch the light well and emphasise the crisp design - good call   :happy2:

 I read somewhere that VW have chosen black as the inner colour for the MKVI GTI Monza's as it is supposed to make the wheel appear bigger than it is.

What like these?
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fkk284%2FGreenouse%2F2008_1201Image0002.jpg&hash=206192ddd3cb6ba14a740ca8f4d3e89cb06db75f)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fkk284%2FGreenouse%2F2008_1129Image0075.jpg&hash=036acab756d3259b52e655486d0096e2256231b2)

 :happy2: :xmassmiley:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Tarmac_Terrorist on December 05, 2008, 11:42:33 pm
Loving those wheels Greenouse  8)

I assume the wheels were stripped back and painted completely black before finishing the faces again and lacquering?
Out of interest, where did you get them done ?  Look awesome on a black GTI, really awesome  :happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 05, 2008, 11:48:21 pm
^^^^

He got them done same place as I did - A1 Wheel Renovation, Wolverhampton. I went there on his recommendation.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Lean on December 11, 2008, 08:58:34 pm
I like those wheels too - can you PM me what it cost you?

Muchos gracias!  :happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 11, 2008, 09:03:03 pm
I like those wheels too - can you PM me what it cost you?

....Are you asking me about the Smoked Chrome powdercoated or Greenouse about the Mk6-style? :confused:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Lean on December 11, 2008, 09:12:22 pm
oops..  :embarrassed: Greenouse about the MKVI approach
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: JonnyG on December 13, 2008, 02:44:36 pm
Loving those wheels Greenouse  8)

Yep, me too,  they are the best of any 18" Monza's  I have seen  :happy2:

Do they maintain the circular diamond cut spiral CD lines of the standard 18"' too ?  (It's hard to tell from the photos)
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Greeners on December 13, 2008, 06:57:46 pm
Loving those wheels Greenouse  8)

Yep, me too,  they are the best of any 18" Monza's  I have seen  :happy2:

Do they maintain the circular diamond cut spiral CD lines of the standard 18"' too ?  (It's hard to tell from the photos)

They do yes, but they also have a 'rainbow' effect under the laquer too  :happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 13, 2008, 08:13:30 pm
^^^^

Those diamond cut alloys will need very regular and frequent care to keep out the white worm (unfortunately).
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Greeners on December 13, 2008, 08:16:38 pm
^^^^

Those diamond cut alloys will need very regular and frequent care to keep out the white worm (unfortunately).

Which is exactly what they get. They even got a clean and wax in the rain today and the rest of the car has had to stay dirty  :happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on December 13, 2008, 08:43:04 pm
^^^^

Those diamond cut alloys will need very regular and frequent care to keep out the white worm (unfortunately).


Which is exactly what they get. They even got a clean and wax in the rain today and the rest of the car has had to stay dirty  :happy2:

....Knowing what great care you take is why I mentioned it - I think people should know - I'm not as careful as you are Nathan due to different mileage etc.

:happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Greeners on December 13, 2008, 08:46:51 pm
^^^^

Those diamond cut alloys will need very regular and frequent care to keep out the white worm (unfortunately).


Which is exactly what they get. They even got a clean and wax in the rain today and the rest of the car has had to stay dirty  :happy2:

....Knowing what great care you take is why I mentioned it - I think people should know - I'm not as careful as you are Nathan due to different mileage etc.

:happy2:

Too true, I can't stand seeing either the car or wheels dirty so hopefully the early bird will prevent the worm  :grin: :grin:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: snapey on January 17, 2009, 02:22:31 pm
Fantastic write up.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: xxx_mojo_xxx on February 15, 2009, 07:14:48 pm
Great believer in the adage "prevention is better than cure".

Rubbing a thin layer of vaseline around the sharp edges of the alloy has done the trick for me in the past.

Adding this small step after you clean your alloys makes them less susceptible to the dreaded "worm" effect over the years.

Hope this helps.

Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on February 15, 2009, 07:34:23 pm
^^^^
Vaseline eh? :surprised: - Yes, it certainly makes sense as it acts as a screen, but doesn't it attract the dirt as it's sticky?

Great believer in the adage "prevention is better than cure".

.... :laugh: I've occasionally used that way of thinking to justify spending on yet another mod! That's how I've come to have a Forge DV and SAMCO silicone hoses, for example.



Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: xxx_mojo_xxx on February 16, 2009, 10:15:45 am
Suggestion is to apply a very thin layer by rubbing a greasy vaseline finger around the rim.  :signLOL: Now that's a thought!!!

This does capture brake dust a bit more then usual, but the positive side is that cleaning the wheels can be a bit easier.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on February 16, 2009, 12:34:44 pm
Suggestion is to apply a very thin layer by rubbing a greasy vaseline finger around the rim.  :signLOL: Now that's a thought!!!

....I'm not going to ask you what inspired this method of giving your wheels such tender loving care! :evilgrin:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: savechip17 on March 02, 2009, 07:05:54 pm
so what sort of price are you guys talking about to get them painted like you two did and cut back? just out of curiosity,
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on March 02, 2009, 07:19:34 pm

so what sort of price are you guys talking about to get them painted like you two did and cut back? just out of curiosity,


....That's a question for Greenouse. Mine were all powdercoated.

Better still, why don't you give Nigel a call who did the work? 01902 871 422. Prices may have changed by now.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: xxx_mojo_xxx on March 03, 2009, 10:33:58 pm
When I had my previous car's 18" inch rims done - it was around £60 per alloy. That's for taking the alloys back to bare metal, baking, the lot - as if new from factory.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on March 03, 2009, 10:41:52 pm

When I had my previous car's 18" inch rims done - it was around £60 per alloy. That's for taking the alloys back to bare metal, baking, the lot - as if new from factory.


....That must have been a while ago. You're looking at about a one-er per corner if you go to the really good guys at it.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: xxx_mojo_xxx on March 03, 2009, 10:50:00 pm
I must admit this was around 3 years ago... and I didn't have the "cut metal finish" like on the Monzas...
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: monk on March 30, 2009, 09:26:51 pm
Been up to SEM at Sunderland today and decided on getting my Monzas refurbed as per "greenouse".
£55 a wheel which is a ggod price .
Going to drop them off tomorrow and should have them back by weekend.
Will post pics and opinion when there back however I have used this company many times with no negative feedback yet.
They will not offer a warranty against white worm but then wo can!!
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: xxx_mojo_xxx on March 30, 2009, 11:16:54 pm
What colour are you going for?
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: monk on March 31, 2009, 06:34:07 am
Machined face with gloss black inside I think :wink:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: xxx_mojo_xxx on March 31, 2009, 02:15:28 pm
Nice...  :laugh:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on April 06, 2009, 08:02:21 pm
....

It's not just Monza's that suffer from white worm - These were on a friend's Mk4 GTI and he'd only had them a short while but it started immediately after the snows and road salts.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FWhiteworm_Chris_Mk4.jpg&hash=6602f5f1d1e1ed60ce3421d65516bf6f092e4dae)
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: JPC on April 06, 2009, 08:53:15 pm
i guess they were reps?

white worm forms unbelievably fast on some replica alloys!
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on April 06, 2009, 09:30:11 pm
^^^^
I'd have to check but I'm not sure they are reps.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: JPC on April 06, 2009, 09:32:31 pm
a friend of mine has some rs4 reps. black centres and polished face. they started corroding after a matter of months!
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: xxx_mojo_xxx on April 06, 2009, 09:58:41 pm
Looks like those RS4 alloys have had a visit too frequent with the good old ye gritting truck...
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: u01atc8 on April 28, 2009, 01:12:27 am
anyone know where i can get the Monza 2's with the black inserts?
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on April 28, 2009, 07:43:53 am

anyone know where i can get the Monza 2's with the black inserts?


....In due course you should be able to get the Mk6 GTI wheels from VW, but they won't be cheap - Probably around £2k with tyres(?).

Otherwise, your best bet is to either buy some previously used Monza's or take yours (assuming you have) to a good refurbisher/specialist such as A1 in Wolvehampton and get them painted all black and then the faces diamond-cut back to the metal and lacquered. Greenouse has done this.

Hope This Helps,
RR
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: monk on April 28, 2009, 05:11:49 pm
anyone know where i can get the Monza 2's with the black inserts?

I had mine done at SEM sunderland @£ 55 a wheel
http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=3800.msg57972#msg57972
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: scoty on April 28, 2009, 11:10:11 pm
good write up been thinking about what to do with my moza 2's a friend refurbs wheels and sugested ceramic pollishing the face so there super shiny then lacquered so gona give that a try for now should be getting done soon


scoty
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on April 28, 2009, 11:38:46 pm
^^^^
It would be good to see some pics in due course of "ceramic polishing" whatever that is.

:happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: ub7rm on April 30, 2009, 08:23:30 am
^^^^
I'd have to check but I'm not sure they are reps.

Cant see the picture as I'm at work but the mk4 genuine anni alloys were really bad for white worm.  Don't think the monty's were too bad unless there was significant damage. 
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: winrya on May 01, 2009, 05:42:21 pm
if you want to kill the white worm you just need to make you clean the wheels once a week with a mild shampoo throught the summer and twice a week in the winter.  Protect them with a wax or sealent every so often.

The problem usually starts in the winter when people stick the car in the garage with salt all over the alloys and dont touch it for a couple of days. The salt just sits there eating away at the laquer. 
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on May 01, 2009, 06:52:44 pm

if you want to kill the white worm you just need to make you clean the wheels once a week with a mild shampoo throught the summer and twice a week in the winter.  Protect them with a wax or sealent every so often.

The problem usually starts in the winter when people stick the car in the garage with salt all over the alloys and dont touch it for a couple of days. The salt just sits there eating away at the laquer. 


....Yes, that's all very well in theory but not always practical. I wash mine (just the wheels) once a week (just done so today) whenever possible but even when the snows have well gone there's still all sorts of chemicals etc picked up from the road environment.

Through last winter I've been testing some exhaust tip finishes for Milltek and we were talking about this today.

It's not just 'salts' but stone chips which break the seal of the BBS lacquer.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: VeeDubDan on May 08, 2009, 09:21:13 am
When I get a set refurbed I will go the full coat route in hyper silver to avoid getting white worm.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: JPC on May 08, 2009, 10:09:51 am

if you want to kill the white worm you just need to make you clean the wheels once a week with a mild shampoo throught the summer and twice a week in the winter.  Protect them with a wax or sealent every so often.

The problem usually starts in the winter when people stick the car in the garage with salt all over the alloys and dont touch it for a couple of days. The salt just sits there eating away at the laquer. 


....Yes, that's all very well in theory but not always practical. I wash mine (just the wheels) once a week (just done so today) whenever possible but even when the snows have well gone there's still all sorts of chemicals etc picked up from the road environment.

Through last winter I've been testing some exhaust tip finishes for Milltek and we were talking about this today.

It's not just 'salts' but stone chips which break the seal of the BBS lacquer.

predominantly the stone chips.

it has the effect of opening the flood gates for white worm.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: big al on May 24, 2009, 04:16:38 pm
I only live about 5 minutes form A1 wheels, which is handy as mine has some slight cerbing from the previous owner.
Only thing is, I need the wheels on the car, do you guys have spare sets of wheels for when you send them in for the refurb, or do you put them on jacks and tripods? I could only really send one in at a time as I use the spare wheel instead!
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: SteveP on May 24, 2009, 06:00:31 pm
When they did mine I just left the car with them for a couple of days as they have a secure unit so it was perfectly safe.

Others have a spare set (or in Greenouse's case many many sets  :P) of wheels so have just dropped them off with A1  :smiley:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on May 24, 2009, 06:36:39 pm
....

Ask Nigel at A1 - He might have a spare set he can lend you.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Oli on July 31, 2009, 07:26:51 am
Robin - You should have just taken your wheels back to the person you brought them off.............
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on July 31, 2009, 09:30:57 am

Robin - You should have just taken your wheels back to the person you brought them off.............


....Well, the person I bought them from originally was very helpful and suggested the same :wink:. But unfortunately he had his car stolen and so it couldn't be done. A warranty claim would have been submitted from the original car.

As it turns out I'm extremely happy with my Smoked Chrome powdercoated finish - I actually prefer it as it looks far less fancy and is more durable. I'll clean my wheels even if I don't clean the rest of my car in the same session but the finish is less of a concern than the diamond-cut lacquer.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Oli on August 01, 2009, 01:19:32 pm
Lets hope my ED30 doesn't get stolen!
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on August 01, 2009, 01:40:07 pm

Lets hope my ED30 doesn't get stolen!


....If your remap has an anti-theft feature, use it!! :drinking:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: u01atc8 on August 07, 2009, 12:06:57 pm
I have the 2 tone, diamond cut with black insert style.. of the new mk6.

Has anyone got any ideas who will do a refurb for me , so i can keep the black and diamond cut look.? as i cant find anyone and im figuring that it might be expensive if not many people do it.

Where as i can get a new set for a few hundred pounds...

Help please...lol
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on August 07, 2009, 12:16:57 pm
^^^^
If you look at early posts in this thread you'll see both contact details and pics of their work - A1 in Wolverhampton, speak to Nigel.

:happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Tarmac_Terrorist on August 19, 2009, 09:48:07 pm
Not personally used them but these guys seem to come recommended too:

http://www.lepsons.com/ (http://www.lepsons.com/)
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: riz on August 25, 2009, 08:09:52 pm
Just Rang A1, £85 a corner for refurb.

Laptap in Birmingham are cheaper but they dont do Diamond Cut only Powder!!
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: robern2 on November 21, 2009, 07:54:28 am
A useful post,
Am taking my wife's CZT alloys up to A1 wheels next friday. Nigel has even agreed to get them done the same day as long as I'm there early.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on May 09, 2010, 11:19:05 am
....

Just bumping this thread up as there are a few people wanting reference to its content..
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Britishlion on June 27, 2010, 01:25:59 pm
Thanks guys

For anyone who needs monza refurbs, this is the best write up I have found

Im off to A1 wheels me thinks !!!!
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: winrya on June 27, 2010, 02:10:11 pm
My neighbour is having his refurbed by a1 with black inserts and is collecting them on Tuesday. Until then a1 have given him some steel wheels to run around on, looks very amusing!  I'll see if he'll let me post some pics
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Britishlion on June 27, 2010, 08:22:50 pm
that would be great


would love to see what they look like before and after


our alloys are v bad !

i will try to post some pics

Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: winrya on July 17, 2010, 10:44:26 am
Just a quick photo from distance, I'll take a better one when hes got it clean and I've asked him :laugh:

They look flawless though, brilliant!!

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fe58%2Fwinrya%2FIMG_0554-1.jpg&hash=5e8f08ad50d321ccbf5c49b2ef2210dcc3764c61)
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Britishlion on July 18, 2010, 08:15:25 am
Just a quick photo from distance, I'll take a better one when hes got it clean and I've asked him :laugh:

They look flawless though, brilliant!!

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fe58%2Fwinrya%2FIMG_0554-1.jpg&hash=5e8f08ad50d321ccbf5c49b2ef2210dcc3764c61)

They look great (even from a distance)

Ours has now gone in to Wheel Repair Centre in Preston to have them done !
 :jumpmove: :jumpmove: :jumpmove:

Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: monte on September 27, 2010, 09:34:37 pm
Just had a read through this great write up again and I spotted this awesome picture of Robins car  :drool: :drool: :drool:

I just had to show my appreciation for a great photo.  :congrats:

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fb308%2FRedRobin_05%2FPowdercoat_Bridport.jpg&hash=c74abf3053e221dc310c72840bb2f8d538afd915)
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: JPW on September 11, 2011, 10:04:33 am
Well last week I had my wheels refurbed at A1


Before:
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm7.static.flickr.com%2F6204%2F6134407930_78b8e387b6_z.jpg&hash=3fad221662278d22711750f846ab65d7b0bb92d6)
Worst kerbing.

During :-o :
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm7.static.flickr.com%2F6161%2F6134413686_126be713dd_z.jpg&hash=e60ad13e780fd3d0b761ef95dbe2ef7f7b0af59d)


After:
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm7.static.flickr.com%2F6183%2F6134423410_05876a0571_z.jpg&hash=6724079f46d9254e00bc8f81d7add95cd62b863e)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm7.static.flickr.com%2F6190%2F6133874495_4880b52307_z.jpg&hash=400ed50fa0ed802d4960aa0e890bb12bc0bbd6a2)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm7.static.flickr.com%2F6164%2F6134415116_d3175f4b51_z.jpg&hash=19860f8b5a1908f72d32ba8596499677ad670ddd)

Pleased with the service and the results.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: monte on September 11, 2011, 03:43:34 pm
Can I ask how much mate???
I could do with getting mine done.
Awesome quality there JPW  :congrats:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: JPW on September 13, 2011, 10:24:02 pm
Sent you a PM Monte
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: monte on September 13, 2011, 10:55:44 pm
Top man thanks buddy  :happy2:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: dave963 on October 22, 2011, 02:19:16 am
Hi did you have these done at A1 Wheel Renovations in Wolverhampton and could you tell me the cost per rim. mine are in need of a refurb
Cheers
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: RedRobin on October 22, 2011, 09:18:19 am

Hi did you have these done at A1 Wheel Renovations in Wolverhampton and could you tell me the cost per rim. mine are in need of a refurb
Cheers


....Yes, as stated in the first post, A1 refurb'd them and did a superb job. I think the cost was 3 or 4 hundred squid for the refurb plus Smoked Chrome powdercoat but I don't remember. Best to contact Nigel for an up-to-date price anyway. Ask if there's a forum discount.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Georrge on June 22, 2013, 12:15:39 am
Having the inserts painted black defiantly make the wheels appear larger, still can't believe they're the same size!  :grin:
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: neiller on August 27, 2015, 05:51:16 pm
Can any1 repost the link for the diy refurb page! I just got a quote for £650 for a refurb on mine so in gonna give it a go myself

Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: Liam.Technics787 on July 15, 2016, 02:40:44 pm
With regards to maintaining the finish on Diamond Cut Monzas, What products e.g. what type/name of wax, name of Sealant etc should be used?
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: lukemk5gti on July 15, 2016, 07:52:46 pm
With regards to maintaining the finish on Diamond Cut Monzas, What products e.g. what type/name of wax, name of Sealant etc should be used?

I just had mine diamond cut so I sealed them with 3 coats of jetseal 109 and the finished with two coats of autoglym super HD wax
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: fivetide on July 16, 2016, 10:27:36 pm
Any recommendations for places in Scotland? I've had a quote of £490 to refurb mine!
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: hardhat on November 11, 2018, 06:14:51 pm
 Just had my monza`s refurbed  with the black shadows by Ultimate Alloys in Aberystwyth. Great job, and had the car back in 24 hrs.
Title: Re: Killing The White Worm....
Post by: amanda on November 12, 2018, 01:36:02 pm
Any piccies?