Sandblast or hand sand rusted wheels?

[freemonty]

I just picked up some original wheels and wheel covers for my 71 C10. Wheels have typical rust and I'm curious everyone's thoughts on sanding the rust in order to repaint.

I have access to a sandblaster at a friend's shop, but it'll likely require payment (beer?) and it'll take up an entire weekend because I'll have to drive all the way to Chicago.

Or I could get my hands real dirty and bust out the king size can of elbow grease. I'm leaning towards hand-sanding.

Any compounds or techniques you guys recommend? Wet sanding with just water? What grit to start with? End with?

Recommendations on what paint to use?

Thanks!

Bob

[Tinkermc]

sand would do the best job in the least amount of time.

[BB72CHEVKT]

I used a wire wheel and followed up with sandpaper to remove any scratches.

[hopped up]

i always sandblast my wheels
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[freemonty]

Thanks for the suggestions guys.

What about paint? Were the originals black or white?

[joev]

I just sandblasted mine... 2.5-3 hours max. they look great, 3 bags later.

joev

[freemonty]

I found a guy in town that agreed to sandblast them for $50. Thought it was a good deal.

Still wondering what paint to use though?