I just bought some non-dimpled zipp 404 clinchers which have a problem with the brake track. It’s bulged out symmetrically by .063" at one point. There’s a mark on the inside that looks like someone might have been very aggressive with a metal tire lever. My proposed fix is to get some wood strips to put on the sides and c-clamps over the wood strips and squeeze it back into line.
Thoughts?
Give Zipp a call at 800-346-2928. This is their warranty support number. They may be able to help you out. They are a good group and really do try to take care of issues. Not saying that they will come through but they usually do… Greg
If you’re going to try to fix it yourself then that is about as good a plan as any, although I’d use some stout and very flat metal on either side to ensure you end up with a flat surface.
The guys at Zipp are great, but my guess is that their response is going to be “Send it in for a replacement rim. That will be $400.” Which isn’t all that bad considering what new Zipps go for these days, but is far from free.
As a bonus though, when you pay that $400, you get brand new, this-year’s-model rims. I sent in my early 2003 rims last year and got the brand new rims. Makes it even more worth it 
Oh yeah, I know. I did this with a like 2001-2002 404. Came back like a brand new wheel (although it had a black hub!)
Thanks for the advice everyone. I called zipp. They told me to keep them for trainer wheels, as I’m not the original owner, and the wheels are older than 5 years. I think I’m going to try to fix them myself. Give them a nice gentle squeeze in a vise and see what happens.
Old thread, but did you have any success straightening this rim? Anyone else tried this ? (straighten the braking surface on an aluminum rim) Any tips are appreciated.