What is the common name for these wheels? - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

suburban99 · 05-03-2009, 08:35 PM

I have chrome 17"wheels on my '97 Boxster. I think they are stock but have not seen them on many Boxsters. They are very similar to the alloys but are chrome finished. I have a bit of curb rash from P.O. and need to get one repaired or replaced. They all have some pits from liquid salt solution in winter. Any idea on a cost to re-finish?

sd_boxster · 05-03-2009, 08:55 PM

Those look like chrome turbo twists to me.

Cost to refinish is going to vary widely. Best bet is to find a local shop in an industrial park - you can always find a deal if you're willing to pound the pavement a bit.

Lil bastard · 05-03-2009, 09:36 PM

Actually, I believe they're Turbo Twist II wheels. These start with #996 while the original Turbo Twists are 993 parts. I have the 18" Turbo Twists (993) on my car, but they're painted, not plated. Cheap plating is cheap and not usually long lasting. Good plating (triple plated - Cu, Ni, Cr) is pretty expensive but very durable and long-lasting, more upfront, but usually worth it in the long run.

mikefocke · 05-04-2009, 08:35 AM

plating the wheels makes them weigh more. Thus increasing the unsprung weight.

suburban99 · 05-04-2009, 07:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lil bastard

Actually, I believe they're Turbo Twist II wheels. These start with #996 while the original Turbo Twists are 993 parts. I have the 18" Turbo Twists (993) on my car, but they're painted, not plated. Cheap plating is cheap and not usually long lasting. Good plating (triple plated - Cu, Ni, Cr) is pretty expensive but very durable and long-lasting, more upfront, but usually worth it in the long run.

So did one of the previous owners have them chromed? Or is it a factory option?

Lil bastard · 05-04-2009, 07:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by suburban99

So did one of the previous owners have them chromed? Or is it a factory option?

Honestly not sure, but don't recall them being an option. Have seen them aftermarket from places like Wheel Enhancement, and some others.

rick3000 · 05-05-2009, 09:31 AM

If they are OEM they did not come with chrome from Porsche, it would have to be a dealer or aftermarket job.