I have a set of used polished Eagle 077's I am trying to get cleaned up - and am experiencing quite difficulty. I tried using Airplane Remover to get the gunk to come off, but it didn't help (the wheels are not clear coated). A clay bar doesn't help much either in the heavy spots, just the small spots. Also tried using some other heavy laquer solvent - no help whatsoever.

I was wondering maybe Easy-Off Oven cleaner would help? Would it hurt the aluminum?

I would like to polish these wheels back up if possible, but if not, then painting them is my backup plan. I was VERY surprised that the Aircraft Remover didn't touch the stuff, as it eats off paint, clear coat, anything just about in a matter of a few minutes.

Anyone have any idea as to what I can use to get this caked up brake dust/metal, and crud off of there and still be able to have nice looking wheels? I don't have much in them, so I can't complain too much. Plus, they are 18's...:blah:

 

The eagle web site says those wheels are either polished or chromed, not clear coated. See the chart here: http://www.eaglewheels.com/077.htm

Try some metal polish on the stains. I would not use the Aircraft Stripper, your experience leads me to think that you do not have a clear coat like the web site says because if you did and you sprayed the Aircraft Stripper on clear coat it would have bubbled up right then.

 

I had a typo...sorry...
I meant to say (the wheels aren't clear coated)...

If they were, yes, the Aircraft Stripper would have removed it in a jiffy - we just stripped my buddies WS6 wheels last weekend...I used it tho hoping it would maybe etch into the oxidation a little and get some of that junk broke loose. It can really hurt bare (not really polished) metal though, that's why I wasn't worried about using it.

The stains aren't really the problem - its the caked up crud. I am pretty sure I can polish the stains out.

 

If you have access to a steam cleaner, try it. I wouldn't use oven cleaner. It might permanently stain the wheels.

 

I claybar'd mine

 

I have used laquer thinner which works really well to get brake dust off. Just apply it with a towel and rinse. It should take care of the job. It can be purchased at any home depot.

Make sure you dont let it come in contact with the paint on your car!