Wheel Cleaner?
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Joined: Feb 2001
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From: Keweenaw Bay, MI
Wheel Cleaner?
I have a 2010 F-150 Lariat 4X4 and the front wheels get brake dust and rust staining on them. What is the best wheel cleaner to use to get rid of this? I thought about muratic acid but am afraid of damaging the finish on the wheels.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Resident smarta$$
Joined: Aug 2006
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From: Oaks,PA
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Joined: Feb 2005
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I use some Meguiar's spray on wheel cleaner to keep them in not-too-crappy condition, but the only way to clean them properly is by hand.
I've used Mother's polish with good results... the PowerBall is cool, but you must use extreme care, or the sharp edges on the back side of the wheel "slots" will tear the ball up quickly. Typically I just use old microfiber towels that have been retired from detailing duties.
I would recommend at least rinsing the wheels after your polishing efforts, to prevent any polish lodged in unknown locations from being slung onto the truck when you start moving.
I've used Mother's polish with good results... the PowerBall is cool, but you must use extreme care, or the sharp edges on the back side of the wheel "slots" will tear the ball up quickly. Typically I just use old microfiber towels that have been retired from detailing duties.
I would recommend at least rinsing the wheels after your polishing efforts, to prevent any polish lodged in unknown locations from being slung onto the truck when you start moving.
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Joined: Jan 2008
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From: Maine, Virginia
I have always used what ever wheel and brake dust cleaner is the cheapest. I never use anything but a cleaner that is safe for all wheels.
When I gave my '99 Taurus to my daughter who lives in Illinois, the car and wheels were literally spotless as SE Virginia has no real winter to speak of.
After one winter in Illinois, they drove the car home and looked like it was 25 years old. The wheels were pitted and rusted and totally destroyed. Needless to say that these two youngsters didn't take very good care of it.
So, remembering this story leads me to believe that nothing can be done at home to properly restore pitted wheels.
If I were to take my 2011 to Maine and live, I would find 4 steel wheels for it and have heavy lug snow tires mounted on them and change them out as the seasons dictate.
When I gave my '99 Taurus to my daughter who lives in Illinois, the car and wheels were literally spotless as SE Virginia has no real winter to speak of.
After one winter in Illinois, they drove the car home and looked like it was 25 years old. The wheels were pitted and rusted and totally destroyed. Needless to say that these two youngsters didn't take very good care of it.
So, remembering this story leads me to believe that nothing can be done at home to properly restore pitted wheels.
If I were to take my 2011 to Maine and live, I would find 4 steel wheels for it and have heavy lug snow tires mounted on them and change them out as the seasons dictate.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,200
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From: Ottawa, Ontario Canada
get an old empty spray bottle, fill it with 1/3 water, 1/3 vinegar and 1/3 MR CLEAN.
Wet the wheels with a garden hose, spray with the mixture, wash your truck normally and by the time you are done washing, most of the black sh-- will be ready for a wipe.
Wet the wheels with a garden hose, spray with the mixture, wash your truck normally and by the time you are done washing, most of the black sh-- will be ready for a wipe.
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Laughing Gas
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 983
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From: Detroit 'burbs
I use this stuff I buy at Advanced Auto Parts that comes in a grey bottle (the name is escaping me at the moment..sorry) Its less then $5 a bottle and its a tire AND wheel cleaner. You spray it on and let it sit for a few minutes then spray it off. It works great for me.
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