Wheel Washing

Keeping Your Wheels Sparkling: A Guide to the Best Washing Techniques with SKRAPES Expertise

The wheels of your car are constantly bombarded with dirt, road grime, brake dust, and even tar. Over time, this accumulation can not only dull their shine but also potentially damage the wheel's finish. Fortunately, with the right techniques and a little elbow grease, you can keep your wheels looking their best and extend their lifespan. Here's a guide to washing your wheels, incorporating the expertise of the SKRAPES service:

Preparation is Key

The SKRAPES program recommends gathering these supplies:

• Two Buckets: One filled with soapy water for washing and another with clean water for rinsing.

• Car Wash Soap: Use a high-quality, pH-neutral car wash soap formulated for wheels. The SKRAPES program recommends finding a store that carries a selection of car wash soaps specifically designed to be gentle on wheel finishes while effectively removing dirt and grime.

• Wheel Cleaning Brush: A dedicated wheel brush with soft bristles is essential. Parts stores offers various wheel brushes, including specialized brushes for intricate spoke designs and inner barrels.

• Microfiber Cloths: Microfiber cloths are gentle on the wheel surface and won't leave scratches. The SKRAPES services uses high-quality microfiber cloths when refinishing your rims, and cloths of this type are perfect for drying your wheels.

• Wheel Cleaner (Optional): For heavily caked-on brake dust or grime, a dedicated wheel cleaner can be helpful. Search for a shop that carries a range of non-acidic wheel cleaners suitable for different wheel types (e.g., alloy, chrome). Consult with the store team for the best cleaner for your specific wheels.

• Garden Hose with Spray Nozzle: A strong stream of water will help loosen dirt and debris.

Pre-Rinse is Crucial

The first step, as always, is to thoroughly rinse the wheels with a strong stream of water. Focus on the inner barrel, spokes, and outer rim, paying close attention to any crevices.

Soap it Up! The SKRAPES service Way

For Standard Washes: Fill your wash bucket with clean water and add car wash soap according to the manufacturer's instructions. Dip your wheel brush into the soapy water and gently scrub the entire surface of the wheel. Don't forget the inner barrel and the space between the spokes.

For Heavily Soiled Wheels: The SKRAPES program recommends a two-step approach for wheels with significant brake dust buildup:

1. Iron Removal: Spray the iron remover on a cool wheel and let it dwell for the recommended time (refer to product instructions). The iron remover will turn a reddish-purple color as it reacts with the iron deposits. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

2. Soap Wash: Fill your wash bucket with car wash soap and water. Dip your wheel brush and scrub the entire surface of the wheel, including the inner barrel and spokes.

Rinse, Repeat, and Rinse Again!

Once you've scrubbed all the surfaces, thoroughly rinse the wheels with clean water from your second bucket. Rinse multiple times to ensure all soap residue and cleaning products are removed.

Drying Makes a Difference

Let the wheels air dry whenever possible. Alternatively, use a clean microfiber cloth to gently pat them dry. This helps prevent water spots and ensures a streak-free finish.

Extra Tips for Sparkling Wheels from the SKRAPES program

• Wash Your Wheels Cool: Avoid washing hot wheels under direct sunlight. The heat can cause the soap to dry too quickly, leaving streaks.

• Work on One Wheel at a Time: Focus on cleaning one wheel completely before moving on to the next. This ensures a thorough clean and prevents soap from drying on the wheels.

• Clean Your Wheel Brushes: After washing your wheels, rinse your wheel brushes thoroughly and hang them to dry. This prevents dirt and grime buildup on the bristles that could scratch your wheels in future washes.

• Consider Tire Dressing: For a complete polished look, apply a high-quality tire dressing after your wheels are clean and dry. Opt for a water-based dressing from SKRAPES to avoid attracting dust and dirt.

• Schedule Professional Wheel Refinishing (if needed): If your wheels have sustained significant damage like deep scratches, curb rash, or peeling paint, the SKRAPES services offers professional refinishing. Our team of experts can restore your wheels to their former glory or even transform them with a custom paint job.

By following these simple steps and incorporating the insights from SKRAPES, you can effectively wash your car wheels and keep them looking their best. Remember, regular washing is key to preventing dirt buildup and maintaining the beauty and integrity of your wheels. So, grab your supplies and give your wheels a wash.