Harley Davidson Softail: How to Paint Wheels Using Plasti-Dip

Painting the wheels on your Harley-Davidson Softail is an effective and easy way to make it stand out.

By Bassem Girgis - January 15, 2016

This article applies to the Harley-Davidson Softail.

Plasti-Dip is an all-purpose paint that comes in a spray can. This paint is designed to paint any component you want, and it gives you the option to peel it off later. Painting the wheels on your Harley-Davidson Softail allows you the freedom to customize it in any way you want. If you want your bike to look crazy, if you want your wheels to match your helmet, or if you have a unique color in mind for the wheels, this guide will show you how to do it. Read on if you're interested in painting the wheels on your Softail with Plasti-Dip.

Plasti-Dip painted wheel
Figure 1. Plasti-Dip painted wheel.

Materials Needed

  • Painter's tape
  • Plasti-Dip
  • Soap and water (wheel washing materials)
  • Rag

Step 1 – Clean wheels

Before you cover your wheels with paint, be sure they are as clean as a whistle; you don't want any dirt or debris trapped under the pant's layer. Using soap and water, clean the wheels thoroughly, then dry them completely with a rag.

Use soap and water to clean wheels
Figure 2. Use soap and water to clean wheels.

Step 2 – Tape off surrounding parts

Before spraying the wheels, you have to make sure all the surrounding parts are taped off. Tape off the forks, the tire, and anything you see that's close to the wheel. Keep in mind that a little bit of wind can push paint a little farther than you may think, so be generous with the tape.

Tape off surrounding parts before using Plasti-Dip
Figure 3. Tape off surrounding parts.

Step 3 – Paint the wheels

Shake the Plasti-Dip can very well for a few minutes. Then, aim it six to eight inches away from the wheel. Start painting and keep your hands moving the whole time you're spraying to avoid running paint. Do three layers total, but wait 15 to 30 minutes before adding each layer. When you're done completely, keep the tape until the next day. It takes about four to eight hours for the paint to completely dry.

Painted wheels
Figure 4. Painted wheels.

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