Alloy wheel problem

[Speedmaster]

HI all

Just got 4 new tyres fitted onto my clk430 and brought car home and washed it to get rid of all that white gunk they use to put the tyres on with. However, one of the alloys has now gone all dull and looks almost mouldy. It is sort of pitted with white cloudy stains all over it. I did use a little wonder wheels (rarely use it) but am confused why only one of the alloys has gone like this.

Any ideas what I could use to clean it up? I really dont want to have to get the wheel painted/replaced

thanks guys in advance

 

[jberks]

Wonder wheels over time does make the wheel dull which is why I stopped using it. Instead, I discovered that you can polish alloys. Obvious when you think about it as they are only painted laquered metal, just like the rest of the car! (and to think we all brush acid on them!)

I used some Tcut, followed by normal car polish which brought all the wheels up like new. I have since discovered proper wheel wax (not sure the difference, presumably its thicker) which I have applied to the wheels on my new motor and thus far, I haven't needed anything stronger than a small wheel brush that I use to get into the gap between the twin-spokes. The beauty of this is that you no longer need acid cleaner, the brake dust simply washes off as it can't adhere to the wax. Top it up every few months and you'll never look back.

 

[Speedmaster]

I used to wax the wheels on my last bmw convertible and over time it built up a terrific shine and a simple blast of the power washer would sort the problem.

I intend to do the same with the Mercedes but I need to work out how to fix this wheel first

 

[jberks]

Give Tcut a go. Remember, its only laquer, just like your bonnet. Just treat it the same way and you won't go too far wrong.

 

[television]

It is hard to say without seing it but it sounds as though the surfuce has pin holed and water has got under the laquer, if you cant T cut it off that is what has happened,
Do not use wheel cleaner (read the tin, whats in it)

Malcolm

 

[malcolm E53 AMG]

Once the laquer and paint are penetrated with salt, corrosion soon sets in. I agree with Malcolm that a car wax offers good protection from brake dust.

Sounds like you have been unlucky with that particular wheel and a refurb is the only permanent solution, shouldn't be any more than £50 for the single wheel.

Tyre fitters I find always place the balancing weights on the outside of the wheel, which immediately cuts into the painted surface and starts oxidisation which leads to most peoples problems.

I always insist that the wheel weights are put on the inside rim, and when I get the chance, I add a dab of waxoil and this negates the problem.

 

[television]

I always insist that the wheel weight are put on the inside rim and this negates the problem.[/QUOTE]

This is something that makes me hopping mad, How anyone in there right mind can hammer a steel clamp onto an imaculate wheel.

Well I go one stage further and ask them to put the self adhesive wieghts on the back of the spokes. OK I am fussy, but I keep the inside of my wheels as clean as the outside.

Malcolm

 

[Speedmaster]

thanks guys

I cant understand it, the wheel was in very good condition (as all four were) last weekend when I washed the car and it was fine before I went and got the tyres as I notice things like that (oh dear ) and then I wash it and .......................a mess. It is bizzarre and very annoying.

I was pleased with my new tyres as they had solved a problem with the car pulling to the left and it drives more smoothly now. Spoilt a bit by this damn wheel

 

[anyweb]

can you post a pic of it and one of your good wheels ?

cheers
anyweb

 

[philharve]

Hi All

I spotted a new alloy wheel cleaning fluid at my tyre specialist. It's called 'muc-off' (not particularly original name) and is between GBP8 - 9.00 per litre, with spray attachment. It's expensive but it effectively removes brake dust and, over time, so I am told, builds up a thick, corrosion-resistent coating.

I've not used this product. I tend to clean my alloys with my favourite car body shampoo. It does the trick but I sometimes wonder if it doesn't leave a slightly sticky residue that tends to attract dust. I'm told that 'muc-off' leaves a non-sticky coating.

Has any other member used this product?

REGARDS Phil

 

[television]

Take care Phil, If it does what it say's on the tin, read whats in the tin..
Use your soapy water and wax them with wheel wax

Malcolm

 

[philharve]

Hi malcolm

Wheel wax? Have you a particular product in mind?

REGARDS Phil

 

[1993190E]

Try this link: Autoglym works well
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/product_test/60128/wheel_polishes.html

As with many motoring issues balance time with pleasure

 

[television]

Phil, It was the Autoglym that many people swear by, its used widely in the US. I think that any hard could work as well, but then I also use low dust pads.

Malcolm

 

[philharve]

Hi All

The two products I use most is Mer and Autoglym. I like Mer for its unsurpassed shine and longlasting protection. Its only drawback is it's hard work applying it. Autoglym is unusual in that the shampoo has rust inhibitors in the solution. Not sure if wax has the same properties. Both products are easier to apply than Mer but require more frequent application. I use the Autoglym glass cleaning product. Haven't decided upon a wheel cleaner but I know Autoglym manufactures one.

REGARDS Phil

 

[maddog]

Has any other member used this product?

REGARDS Phil

yes it was originally marketed for motorcycles and its pretty good but i dont use it on the paintwork