So yesterday I picked up some used AP2 V1 wheels off an 05'. Today I started cleaning them up, but I'm unable to remove a lot of the sludge, grime etc. from the inside of the rims. I don't believe they're ever been cleaned, let alone washed. I washed them, sprayed them with P21's wheel cleaner, used various brushes, clayed and the stuff is still there. After an hour on one rim (which looked a little better) I stopped. What else can I do? A product which is stronger, but won't affect the rim or clear coat? Is my only opnion to get them professionally redone? Thanks

 

you can try claying the rims. I clayed the front of my rims and alot of contaminents and alot of brake dust came off. I haven't gotten to the back of the rims since I don't have the proper jacks for the car.

 

I did do that.

 

Polishing Compound should be your next step if not rubbing compound on a Terry Towel. If you are talking about inside the wheels. On the outside I would stick with Polishing Compound.

 

Yes inside the wheels, grooved part (dish like).

 

Pix please... But Polishing Compound would be next to try.

 

with EOE

 

Mr. wanabe has a section on wheel cleaning in his detailing sticky.

https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=420668

I am still trying to find a nylon bristle cup brush to run in my drill motor for cleaning corners and grooves.

Check the label on your wheel cleaners. It should state whether it is for ClearCoat or bare aluminum. Acid cleaners are for bare aluminum.

 

Inside the wheel after scrubbing for quite sometime.



The outside looks fine.

 

hmmmm... looks like some heavy duty etching and build-up. Brake dust will certainly eat up the clear-coat on our rims, and if the previous owner used acid based cleaners the wrong way.... you're kinda out of luck. i'd hate to say - but that's pretty much what it looks like with the discoloration and heavy/deep pitting
My personal philosophy is that as long as the face looks good, they're good enough. g/l