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Dodge Ram: Customizing Your Rims

Nice shoes will certainly grab people's attention. Here's how to give the rims on your Dodge Ram a whole new look.

By Charlie Gaston - July 1, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram (1994-present).

One of the easiest ways to add style to your Dodge Ram, while simultaneously commanding the attention of other motorists and Dodge Ram enthusiasts out on the road, is through the modification of your wheels. There are many options when it comes to customizing wheels. Some people like to replace the rims all around, while others find satisfaction in making them even more unique. From custom lug nuts to powder coating, you will have rims that scream "you."

Rim Modifications

Lug Nuts

DIY Cost – $60 to $150

Professional Cost – $80 to $470

Skill Level – Easy; No professional experience required

This is the most aggressive way to achieve a boast in style and attitude. For 2nd generation trucks, it's recommended that you go with a set of sporty alloy lug nuts to complement your OEM alloy wheels. Unlike other types of lug nuts, alloy lug nuts are tapered at the ends.

For 3rd and 4th generation trucks, it's recommended that you choose a set of chrome lug nuts that bolt to the face of your OEM chrome wheels. This bold, exposed style is sure to complement your truck's larger, more pronounced grille, aggressive hood, and redesigned headlights. You could also opt for a set of black or anodized ones for a look of added embellishment.

New Paint

DIY Cost – $7/can of Plasti-Dip

Professional Cost – $50

Skill Level – Easy; Simply point and spray for the finish you want

This is the cheapest way to spruce up older OEM aluminum or chrome wheels, as well as increase the "cool factor" of newer aftermarket aluminum or chrome wheels. Plasti-Dip is great for covering up the long-term wear that can be associated with 2nd generation trucks. Because Plasti-Dip is available in a variety of colors, 3rd and 4th generation truck owners will have more room to play.

Plasti Dip is easy to apply as well as remove. However, it does not last as long as a professional finish. Owners of the 2015 Black Ram Express edition might want to consider going for a black-on-black finish for the most aggressive and attention-grabbing look on the road.

Powder Coating

DIY Cost – Not advisable

Professional Cost – $400 for a complete set

Skill Level – Hard; Advanced skill is required

This is the most expensive way to dress up a second, third or fourth generation truck. A professional job that involves an extensive curing process, powder coating is a great option for off-road enthusiasts. The paint holds up extremely well against damages caused by salty roads, and you can expect long-term results. The durability of powder coating is second to none. If you use your truck as a show vehicle, powder coating isn't the route for you. It's durable, but it's not flashy enough for a show truck.

Third and fourth generation trucks will benefit the most from this final option. The attractive color schemes available on the market today will complement the full range of OEM paint that comes available on newer model trucks.

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