Just picked up my 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 All Terrain with 6.2 engine. Only have 100 miles on it so far. When I ordered it, I noticed the term for the 18 inch wheel was "chrome clad wheels". After taking one of the wheels off for closer inspection I find out that the entire center section that covers the spokes and hub is chromed plastic. Appears to be about a 1/2 inch thick. The appearance looks OK and comes as part of the All Terrain package. It is fastened to the aluminum spoke sub structure with some kind of adhesive. Questions???? Why did GM do this? What are the benefits or problems with this type of construction? The only thing I could think of as a benefit might be more resistance to corrosion on the salty roads in the winter. Anyone have the facts on these types of wheels?

 

It is cheaper for production. Chromeing a plastic mold vs an entire wheel seems to be the way alot of manufacturers are going now.

 

That pretty much sums it up! they will look better Longer!

They do Look pretty good! my Friend Just got his All Terrain,also with a 6.2 I drove it the other day rides really nice i have the same truck coming But not an All Terrain,he has the extra cab in White.... i got the extra cab in storm grey,with max trailering package!

In town his truck was getting 15.3 .... when i drove it i gave it a little throttle a few times not a lot but enough to make it move out :~) he 0nly had 1500 miles on it at that time, it dropped to 15.2 but after just about a mile it came back up to 15.3 He has the 342 gears ,i ordered mine with the 373's i'm going up to 35's when i get mine broke in...6-8 weeks :~( Gonna be the longest weeks of my life LOL

That four bar grill looks Real good also IF i was going with Chrome wheels i would get one of those grills to go in mine ,but I'm going Black and the stock grill will work for a while...

One thing my friend like most about the Wheel was they will be a Breeze to wash!

 

Thanks for the inputs about the wheels. The All Terrain chrome clad wheels look pretty good. I just hope they hold up in the dirt. I don't get into any serious off roading, but I do get on some of the moderate rated trails. I had some Weld wheel on my 2003 Silverado and they held up extremely well. Glad to hear the positive comments about the 6.2 engine. Can't wait to get a few more miles on it and push it a little harder.