Does anyone know a good way to clean wheels? Every time I clean my wheels, it takes about 1-2 days and they are covered in brake dust. Does anyone know a cleaner that will not attract brake dust? What about those dust shields that fit inside the wheel? Anyone use these?

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Bigworm
'97 XLT Expedition 4X4
4.6L V8, BFG 265/75R16 A/Ts & Lots of dreams

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Have not seen a product for wheels that claims that it doesn't attract brake dust. To minimize the work to clean them, I wax my wheels. The dust comes off much easier and eliminates the need to use a harsh chemical cleaner.

I have not used the dust sheilds but have heard they work. You can usually see them from the outside like you see your caliper and rotor now so it may be an appearance issue for some people.

Another alternative is dustless brake pads. I believe Raybestos makes them although I do not know if they make them for a truck application. They came stock on my '99 Taurus and, much to my surprise, the brake dust is reduced dramatically.

Hope this helps.



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BlueOvalBolt, Thanks a million for your response. Do you have a suggested wax? Also, one list member told me that he heard that the dust shields possibly trap heat and may cause the rotors to warp. Ever heard this? Thanks again!!

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Bigworm
'97 XLT Expedition 4X4
4.6L V8, BFG 265/75R16 A/Ts & Lots of dreams

Bigworm's WebSite
Bigworm's Photos

 

No specific recommendations for what wax to use for the wheels. I don't use my "good" stuff for the wheels, generally some old wax that I have stopped using for whatever reason.

I would suppose that it would be *possible* for heat to build up and cause damage to the rotor. IMO this would be unlikely unless you are autocrossing or very hard on your brakes to begin with. They don't enclose the rotor and, the ones I have seen, have vents in the sheild to direct air into the rotor area. Not an expert, just my opinion.

 

I don't know if this will help you or not...
I noticed that my wheels on previous vehicles would not build up grime as fast, if I sprayed the tires with ArmorAll or whatever I had. Then after spraying the tires, I would just use a clean rag to wipe the excess off the wheels before wiping the tires. They collect a little dirt dust, but the brake dust didn't seem to stick and buildup as quickly. I say previous vehicles 'cause I just haven't cleaned my tires that well yet on this one.

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'97 F-150 Lariat SuperCab 4X4

• White/Silver, 4.6L, Auto.
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BigWorm
I do not know what will keep the dust off. I allways wax my rims, helps to keep it from distroying the clearcoat.
One thing I will recomend for cleaning them is EagleOne AtoZ it is the best stuff to clean them, escpecially if you have billet wheels like me.

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1999 F150 4x4 4.6V8 regcab/shortbed
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[This message has been edited by Don C (edited 11-28-2000).]

 

Thanks for your help, guys!!!

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Bigworm
'97 XLT Expedition 4X4
4.6L V8, BFG 265/75R16 A/Ts & Lots of dreams

Bigworm's WebSite
Bigworm's Photos

 

PLEASE!!!

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Bigworm
'97 XLT Expedition 4X4
4.6L V8, BFG 265/75R16 A/Ts & Lots of dreams

Bigworm's WebSite
Bigworm's Photos

 

I believe i have the solution. At Wal*Mart there is a cleaning set for wheels.

i forgot who made it but the cleaner SUCKS.
there is another bottle though that you spray all over your wheel and it keeps break dust from forming quickly.although you will get brake dust even after using this it will wipe off with a dry rag.it keeps the dust from attaching to the wheels.

also if you have trouble ever getting it off
"PURE AMMONIA" will work better than anything. it will run right off.

 

Sorry to harp on this again,but Mothers Clearcoat Wheel Polish leaves a really slick finish on mine. The Eagle One A2Z
cleaner is the best I've ever used!
Even cleaned the Calipers,I never knew they were supposed to be silver=),,,98

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WOW,what a cool site!




[This message has been edited by 98SCREAMER (edited 12-09-2000).]