Wheel "corrosion"???

rel3rd

Founding Member
Nov 1, 2002
270
11
18
Baltimore, MARYLAND
I have this white powdery looking stuff going on with my wheels. Around the lugnuts, and behind the actual chrome face....like the backs of the wheels, I guess you could say...
It wipes pretty much right off with a finger, but it can't be good for the long term...

What should I use to remove it, and keep it gone??

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I work on Aircraft for a living, and I can tell you from experience that it is aluminum corrosion. Either you have an alloy in there somewhere, or your wheels are all aluminum. The only thing you can do about it is to keep cleaning it off, and often. Plain old rubbing alcohol and some kind of brush works well. You could look around for some kind of sealant(we use something similar to WD-40) but, I dont really know what would work without affecting your braking performance. If you find anything, I'm sure a lot of people would like to know.
TBIRDWAGON
 
wow, those are my EXACT rims and I have the same EXACT problem. I hope someone knows what to do.

Also, my chrom at certain parts is slightly bubbling and it actually chipped in one spot.

The white stuff comes off with a brush and car soap, but returns promptly!
 
Like I said, it's aluminum corrosion. as for chipped chrome, sorry but it's too late for you. try using the alcohol, it may help a little. I asked a few people around work, and they said the WD-40 would work, just keep it off the actual braking surface.
TBIRDWAGON
 
AmBo said:
Once it starts chipping, is there anyway to help aid it so it doesn't keep chipping? Or am I looking at having to re-dip my wheels?
the only way to keep it from degrading further is to stay on top of it. CLR stands for calcium, lime and rust. while rust is a type of corrosion, it is the byproduct of steel. the problem you have is with aluminum. I dont recomend using products that are meant to treat another problem entirely. however, the wax is an excellent idea. it will seal the already exposed metal, as well as keep the elements out and keep them from doing further damage.