XKR Wheel Refurb

[Phil Ellis]

Good morning. Some time ago whilst getting a quote for a full refurb of my 20" Sepang alloys I was informed that they had stopped sourcing the BBS stainless bands due to poor quality of product. I was given the option of sourcing them myself and that they would be fitted if of the right quality or alternatively I could have a diamond cut polished edge where the bands would normally fit. I then found a well respected Jaguar specialist who said they would take the job on and that they were confident of sourcing and fitting good quality SS bands. Now received a call saying the bands have arrived and are a load of rubbish, despite a 4 week wait. I've now been offered the same polished edge alternative or wait in the faint hope that a decent set of bands can be sourced. My concern is what the wheels will look like and how much this will reduce the car's value in terms of authenticity. Does anyone have any views or comments.

Kind regards

Phil

[Old Peter]

Hi Phil,

When I had the wheels on my s type refurbished I had  great look around and eventually went to a Lichfield one man company who knew everything about wheels called First Class alloys.  He did a great job on all 5 wheels [proper spare in boot].

I don't know how he would have done on a special set as one your car, but  with an XKR -- a classic in the future - authenticity is important.

Peter.

[Phil Ellis]

Hi Peter,

Thanks for that. That is my main concern. It does appear that decent BBS bands are difficult to source. It seems the main supplier have outsourced the production hence the quality concerns. I might try your Lichfield contact as it's not too far from me. 

Phil

[Old Peter]

Hi Phil,

First Class alloys has a website and the place is easy to find.   He managed to source a full set of wheels for my son's X type the day before the car's MOT when if had bee severely potholed and my son had forgotten about the MOT.

Peter.

[Phil Ellis]

Hi Peter. I had my wheels refurbed including new BBS stainless steel bands at AWJ automotive in Newcastle Staffs. First class job and the wheels now look amazing complete with a set of new Pirelli P zero tyres. I've used these guys several times now and can't praise them highly enough.

Many thanks for your help and advice.

Take care

Phil

[Old Peter]

Good result, Phil.