Brake Dust Removal? Product Review

SubSlr88 · 11-20-2009, 01:57 PM

I recently tried out "Rim Clean" Foaming Wheel Cleaner from Turtle Wax on my heavily soiled smart wheels. It's sold at most auto stores and large retailers for about $5-10 for a bright orange 23 ounce spray bottle.

Directions say to 'spray generously directly on cool wheels and allow to set for about thirty seconds. Then hose off with a strong steam of water.'
Within just a few seconds you can see this product going to work and floating away the dirt and brake dust off the wheel. I followed the directions and hosed the wheels off with a strong stream of water and a follow up spray. The "Rim Clean" removed about 98% of the crud from the wheels - leaving just a few easily removed stubborn spots, mostly on the front rims. I followed up with a wash mitt dipped in regular car wash solution and the wheels just sparkled! For all four wheels I used maybe a fourth of the bottle - so you could figure on maybe four or so applications per bottle of product.
Impression - this product works as advertised and really makes cleaning the brake dust and crud off the wheels easy.

Caveats - after completing the wash job, drying and cleaning the interior - maybe another 45 minutes - I noticed that the front brake rotots had a very light coating of rust. I attribute this to the "Rim Clean" product formulation with phosphoric and citric acids. (The rust was gone after the first short drive.)
The directions also mention that the product should be tested on an inconspicous area first as it may cause 'hazing' on some rims. I would be especially cautious on painted or aftermarket rims - my test was on stock silver powder-coated rims.

And keep this stuff off of your skin and out of your eyes~!
(Disclaimer - I am not involved with the sale or production of this item in any way.)

forestacademy · 11-20-2009, 02:44 PM

I No Doubt it worked as advertised, But I'm just to cheep.

I tried several Spray on, rinse off products, They all worked but I would find all to fast the bottle was empty and I was left wondering what kind of harsh chemicals I had just used and rinsed away with water wondering where it will turn up next. I also worry about what will spray off my wheels onto my car while driving after I use stuff like that.

I then took the time to WAX my wheels. Ever since them I just use standard car wash soap and the end of the car wash and a microfiber towel. I have yet to rub anything, I just need to wipe away the dirt. Splash some water from the end of my rinse bucket on them and they look really good. If I have the time I will dry them and give them a shot of Turtle wax Ice spray detailer to make the next clean up even easier. Oh, and I only wash the rears ever 4th wash or so because they seem to stay clean, I'm sure this will change in the winter.

jimvw57 · 11-20-2009, 02:50 PM

For years now I have used Eagle One rim cleaner on the Aluminum rims of my Expedition, which accumulate a LOT of dust, grime etc. I found it worked best if I use a nylon brush (like a bottle brush) to help the cleaning and then rinse. Occasionally it takes a second application but it is better than scrubbing by hand which takes a long time. Never noticed any damage to the rims. I ahve had the truck since 1999, and with 250K on it, it has seen some abuse.... READ THE LABEL. most of those cleaners have an acidic base.

jetfuel · 11-20-2009, 03:03 PM

..hey Gump...what kind of wax did you use on your wheels?...I'll bet it was not llama ear wax...was it?

jetfuel...where're them Q tips at?

...seriously.. what kind of wax?

forestacademy · 11-20-2009, 03:37 PM

Meguiars Cleaner Wax Paste
Meguiar's Direct Cleaner Wax - Paste

I'm going to try and see if I can reapply when they put on my snow tires.

Alchemy R · 11-20-2009, 04:44 PM

I use that Turtle wax too (and it worked well!) but have the same considerations as forestacademy.

I like the idea of waxing my wheels! Or maybe I'll get them powdercoated gunmetal gray and fuggitaboutem... ;)

mvaldes · 11-20-2009, 05:46 PM

Kleenwheels brake dust shields work well for me.

SmartDigger · 11-20-2009, 08:46 PM

I was looking at some stuff today at advancedauto. It scarred me with the disclaimer " Do not use on polished rims" Dady always said "Boy....there is no such thing as a free linch."

NeWave · 11-21-2009, 02:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mvaldes

Kleenwheels brake dust shields work well for me.

Ditto.

Although before I got them, I used the turtle wax rim clean. Like.. $3 at walmart.. Like said, got 98% of the crud off, but there was that stubborn black bits that are a PITA to get off...

rushfan · 11-21-2009, 04:01 AM

I tried waxing my wheels for the first time recently. What a difference!! Not only are they much easier to clean now, but it seems as if less dust sticks to them in the first place. I used regular cheapo turtle wax. Took me maybe 1/2 hour tops to do them, and the payoff is huge. No more having to wash an otherwise clean car because of dirty front wheels.....

Brian