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BBS refurb - protection

Posted: Wed Mar 01, 2006 3:49 pm
by frazzle
So I'm planning to refurb the alloys. I've found someone who can do it but I want it to last as long as possible. So my question is: are there any products or general advice on how best to prolong the lifetime of the alloy - what cleaning products should I steer clear of etc etc etc. It's going to cost around £300 so I want to keep them spotless for as long as possible.

Posted: Wed Mar 01, 2006 4:28 pm
by Redline
It very much depends on what kind of finish you are having on them.

The reason for the corrosion on the BBS RXII wheels in the first place is due to water getting underneath the laquered rim.

So if you go for a polished un-laquered finish, then the main source of the corrosion isn't there. All they are need are a washing and a some decent metal polish to maintain their shine.

For general cleaning, try and avoid acidic based alloy wheel cleaners. All I ever use is the same car shampoo I use on the car and a bit of elbow grease to shift any brake dust etc.

Posted: Wed Mar 01, 2006 5:00 pm
by Si_GTi
Redline wrote:It very much depends on what kind of finish you are having on them.

The reason for the corrosion on the BBS RXII wheels in the first place is due to water getting underneath the laquered rim.

So if you go for a polished un-laquered finish, then the main source of the corrosion isn't there. All they are need are a washing and a some decent metal polish to maintain their shine.

For general cleaning, try and avoid acidic based alloy wheel cleaners. All I ever use is the same car shampoo I use on the car and a bit of elbow grease to shift any brake dust etc.
As above! If you get any really hard to shift stains or marks on the alloys, only use strong acidic cleaners very, very sparingly! I use Autoglym car shampoo to clean mine but have been known to use Autoglym's clean wheels cleaner on occasion for tough brake dust and stuff, but always remove it within about 30 seconds of application :)

Posted: Wed Mar 01, 2006 6:43 pm
by ICEYPOLO
if you have a look over on www.detailingworld.co.uk there's a few guides on cleaning and maintaining alloys, you can get sealants and all manner of products to prolong the life of the finish on your wheels!

i've been reading this site for the last week and i'm converted!! :wink:

scott