I have this black residue (I'm assuming it's either brake dust or just dirt that's been sitting) that seems to be stuck on the chrome lip of my wheels. I tried to wash it off when I wash the car but haven't had any luck. Can anyone give me some suggestions as to what to use? thanks

Edwin

 

I get this quite a bit as there is a ton of road construction here in Chicago. I think it is asphalt or tar of some sort. I typically use Meguires #6 cleaner/wax. It works great.

Is the chrome clear coated? If so, a cleaner/wax like mentioned above may be a good start.

Adam

 

Thanks Adam. I don't think the chrome is clearcoated. I'll have to try Meguiars #6...although it doesn't "sound" like it's abrasive enough?

Edwin

 

Yeah, it is not abrasive at all. It takes a little elbow grease but it does not scratch the wheels either. What about chrome polish? That might work well too.

Adam

 

I'll have to do some more research. Thanks for your input though!

Btw, love the vantage. Hope to have one in my garage within the next year

Edwin

 

Least abrasive product first. I would use a chemical cleaner/ tar remover.

 

by chance do you have a picture?

 

Use an old piece of clay. I've used that in the past to get crap that wouldnt come off otherwise.

 

The reasoning for the use of solvents for the removal of bituminous asphalt is that it dissolves it as a means of removal, as opposed to rubbing it. Asphalt is very sticky and its presence on your paint means that harder particulate matter (dirt/grit) has also stuck to it. By agitating or rubbing the dirt/grit that is contained with the bituminous asphalt will cause surface marring or possibly scratching, dissolution alleviates any potential surface damage. Using (abrasive) clay on chrome wheels will have a similar affect


Always utilise a safe solvent that does not contain any harmful components (heptanes or xylene or hydrocarbon aliphatic solvents (Stoner™ Tarminator) that simply emulsifies and dissolves the bituminous asphalt / tar /grease when you spray it directly on the paint film surface It is important not to leave a solvent based chemical on the paint finish longer than is necessary. Simply apply to the affected area, allow sufficient dwell time, and carefully wipe off, you may have to apply it three or four times allowing plenty of "dwell time" between applications.