When Iron X and Tardis Fail - What Next?

[Chrishazle]

Have you tried using Wonder Wheels Chris? I always have problems with caked in brake dust and cr4p on the wheels of my scooter as i do 250 miles a week on it. I normally use Bilberry or Auto Finesse Grime Remover and then WD40, however, i bought some Wonder Wheels at the weekend and was surprised at how easily and quickly it removed all of the dirt - a hell of a lot easier than the Bilberry & Auto Finesse products (500ml with an applicator and pot for £7.99 in Halfords).

It is slightly acidic, however, i do remember cleaning the wheels of my old MK2 Golf GTi 16v in the 90's which was my pride and joy and never had any problems with using it regularly.

Here's some info on detailing world:

Hydrochloric Acid based wheel cleaners - Detailing World

I've used Wonder Wheels in the past, but the overall impression I have from extensive reading about looking after lacquered alloy wheels is to stay away from acidic cleaners, as they damage the lacquer. I think the problem I have is that the wheels have not been looked after in the past - the car is just over 4 years old and I'd swear this is the first time the inside has been cleaned, so the innermost stuff is well and truely locked on! I've just taken my 968 for a full 4 wheel strip and refurb, when I get her back I'll look at the results and think about the same treatment for the S204 summer wheels as we see this car as a long term keeper - the full strip and refurb would cost £210, which could be money well spent.

 

[300CE]

I've used Wonder Wheels in the past, but the overall impression I have from extensive reading about looking after lacquered alloy wheels is to stay away from acidic cleaners, as they damage the lacquer. I think the problem I have is that the wheels have not been looked after in the past - the car is just over 4 years old and I'd swear this is the first time the inside has been cleaned, so the innermost stuff is well and truely locked on! I've just taken my 968 for a full 4 wheel strip and refurb, when I get her back I'll look at the results and think about the same treatment for the S204 summer wheels as we see this car as a long term keeper - the full strip and refurb would cost £210, which could be money well spent.

Fair enough Chris, sounds like it's well worth the strip down and refurb as you've suggested so that you can keep them spic and span from now on

 

[Superspec]

The issue with acidic cleaners is really about repeated use and wheels with clearcoat damage. A one off hit to sort out minging wheels wouldn't be a problem. Just rinse them really really well once they are clean.