what do you use to clean the rims?

Discussion in 'Mechanics Garage' started by FrankoQ, May 15, 2008.

  1. FrankoQ

    FrankoQ New Member

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    I did a search but found nothing :dizzy:
    My rims need some serious cleaning.
    What should I use to make them nice and clean again?
     
  2. mello dude

    mello dude Administrator

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    I'm interested in this one too. But if they are really super crappy - like the rear ....S-100 and a toothbrush and really work it in. Rinse with water really good. Dont miss any spots cause it will eat it. Then finish with Honda Polish. If I'm really ambitous, wax with meguiars tech wax.

    What do everbody else do?

    MD
     
  3. wade _s

    wade _s New Member

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    I just spray the honda aerosol spray cleaner on a rag and wipe the rims off. It takes the chain lube and road grime right off.
     
  4. derstuka

    derstuka Lord of the Wankers Staff Member

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    I used to use simple green, but I have started using the Honda Polish now and it works up a good shine.....unless they are really dirty, then I would use simple green first.
     
  5. Lgn001

    Lgn001 Member

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    For the back wheel, I use a paper towel sprayed with WD40 to wipe of all the grime. Then I use a paper towel with ProtectAll spray cleaner to remove the WD40 and leave a protective finish. Front wheel is usually paper towel dampened with water, then ProtectAll.
     
  6. VT Viffer

    VT Viffer New Member

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    I like to use a generic version of "Castrol Super Clean" called Purple Power.

    Spray it on, scrub with a soft wheel brush, and spray off.

    Follow up with a coat of good carnauba wax.
     
  7. speed

    speed New Member

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    i use simple green with hot water however i do think it makes the finish not shine as well as i would like, Amoral has a wheel cleaner that shines too i used it once and i noticed a better shine ?
     
  8. VsVFR

    VsVFR New Member

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    This answers it for me. The Honda cleaner hasn't disappointed yet.
     
  9. John451

    John451 Member

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    Like the chain just use Kero soaked on a Chux wipes cleaning cloth taking care not to get any on the tyre itself.
     
  10. MileHighInterceptor

    MileHighInterceptor New Member

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    i've been using simple Green Max- gets everything off and is actually a green product. one thing that really helps is to wax your wheels; will keep off a lot of dirt and brake dust.
     
  11. BLUE_MKIV

    BLUE_MKIV New Member

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    I just cleaned my rear rim...I used WD40 on an old piece of towel. This worked great to remove the grease. I followed up with Honda Spray Polish.
     
  12. reg71

    reg71 Poser Staff Member

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    since when do rims need cleaning>?
     
  13. ZonaMan

    ZonaMan New Member

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    Whatever happened to washing your bike with water and car wash detergent? If they're really dirty, they need to be washed. Save the Honda cleaner for quickies and polishing.

    I do like the Simple Green idea though.
     
  14. FrankoQ

    FrankoQ New Member

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    Thanks for the suggestions.
    I guess I'll be cleaning the rims this weekend since it will be another
    rainy weekend :mad:
     
  15. bitterpil

    bitterpil New Member

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    Turle wax bug and tar remover...Spray on a rag you no longer want a wipe off all the grime. It is like $2.30 a can at auto parts stores.

    Careful not to get this and many of the other cleaners on your rotors or tires.
     
  16. Army86VFR750

    Army86VFR750 New Member

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    I was going to try Eagle 1 a-z wheel and tire cleaner. It works on the wifes suburban, but I never used it on a bike. Anyone out there use it?
     
  17. squirrelman

    squirrelman Member

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    Some cleaners are too harsh and can permanently stain any aluminum parts they touch or are not good for tires.

    the best way to clean wheels is to have your lady use a toothbrush with Go -Joe hand cleaner followed by a water hose. Brake dust and chain lube may take lots of scrubing.
     
  18. eddievalleytrailer

    eddievalleytrailer Member

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    I use Greased Lightning mixed 50/50 with water. If real greasy with chain lube, you can use it full strength. Just don't let it sit on there too long. Rinse with plenty of water.
     
  19. CaptainBart

    CaptainBart New Member

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    I went to the local races and received a sample of this stuff called Super Clean. I put it in my garage and about a month later went to throw it away while cleaning out my garage. I figured what the heck and decided to try it on my rear wheel. Wow is all I am going to say! Wow! Now I don't sell the stuff and I will always be broke but you can sure make that rim look good for yourself.
     
  20. stumpy

    stumpy New Member

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    I use a spray on degreaser with an old rag followed with a good soaking with car wash. Been doing it for years. It works really well
     
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