I'm currently refinishing a set of these rims. I stripped then sanded them. Since they had gold inlay I'm changing to grey. Lesson learned that primer has to be used prior to painting. I'm polishing the rim also using a bench grinder with buffing wheels and also using a drill. Some say that it's only a couple of hours, well I have about 15 hours and they aren't done yet. I'll try to post some pics soon.

 

Try taking a dual action sander with fine grit paper to them before polishing, works great and takes a lot less time.

 

Use 'etching primer'

It sticks to aluminum much better imo. Good luck.

 

Thanks for the comments
The etching primer sound like a good idea, since paint adhesion is a problem.
I found my heavy duty buffing wheel and got it on the bench grinder, really helps the shining process. My buddy owns a body shop and offered to spray the complete wheel with some 20/15 something something clearcoat. It's used on flexible body parts(car), I'm skeptical about letting him spray over my hard work. Mother's Wheel Polish works wonders for the final shine and removal of buffing residue. Once I figure out how to post a photo with this message, you guyswill get a visual progress report.
Thanks again