I'm planning to change the rims/tires on my new 05 Ram from the stock 17" to at least 20s. I've been doing alot of surfing looking at rims online. What is better for the money? Chrome rims or polished aluminum billet? I know there's alot of actual chrome on the truck already, and if the polished isn't going to match it then that's that. But the pics I see online look just like chrome and they say they are easier to maintain and lighter. Which lasts longer? Anyone here know anything about the difference in the two? Any advice is appreciated!! This is alot of $$ to throw around...I want to get the best I can with what I've got to spend, and I want it to last. Thanks in advance!

Russ
2005 Ram 1500 SLT SC <<<<<<(my first NEW truck!! Woohoo!!!)

 

Oh yes...the beginning of the project, in case any were curious...lol

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i like chrome better. its easier to keep clean. with the polished rims, they lose their luster really quick.especially if u live in where it rains or snows a lot. then u have to bust out the mothers polish and shine em up. whereas with chrome. apply a coat of chrome polish once a year and ur set. with the chromes after a wash, just wipe em down dry and ur ready to PIMP.

 

Trace Adkins said, "Her favorite color is chrome!"

Actually, in my opinion, it depends on the wheel design. Some look better in chrome and some look better in polished aluminum. Chrome is easier to maintain. Polished Aluminum has a deep richness to it. On one of my cars, the chrome wheels break up a lot of red paint surface and tie in well with the chrome bumpers. On the other hand, I think the polished wheels on my truck add a touch of class.

Personally, I think polished wheels will look great with the color of your truck.

 

Thanks for the info! And BTW...LOVE the SRT-10! That is tight! I think I've got it narrowed down now. Next question, though...anyone seen any aftermarket leveling kits anywhere? I see 4 point lowering kits, but I just want to level off the rear end a bit. TIA!

 

polished aluminum is soo 80's. i remember people use to bang out the cookie cutter 15x10" polished aluminum Centerlines. ugly then ugly now. JUST MY OPINION. [sm=icon_sneaky.gif]

 

Yup, the billet rims can look great but are a pain to keep nice. The 20's on my RAM are the chrome-plastic-clad style from the factory and are nice to look at and easy to clean, not to mention that if I happen to screw one up it shouldn't be too hard to replace the cladding and not the whole wheel. I'll bet you could pick up a set from someone on the forum for not too much$$$.

Stay far away from chrome steel rims unless you like rust...[:@]

That's my two cents, good luck!!

 

Although heavier, I'm a big fan of Chrome.

Gorgeous truck you've got to start with!! CONGRATS!!

~Amanda

 

I'm not too big into Chrome either. Go with the polished aluminum billet.



-Matt-

 

Chrome gives a deeper shine than polished aluminum and requires a lot less upkeep, but the aluminum rim should be lighter everything else being equal.