WhiteDiamond

My recent clean on my Vette's Cups revealed that even my lightly driven wheels have substantial tar(or tar like) build up in clumps. I used to tar remover products on my wheels, one big name and other from a local store, and found very little in difference between the two. Used various cleaners from hardware store to same result. WD 40 seemed to have greatest effect on releasing this stuff, but worried about finish. WD40 followed with soap/water immediately didn't seem to affect the finish, but time will tell.

Best method seemed to be mechanically cut the tar like stuff down then tackle thin layer of residue with WD40 -- soap/water.

Anyone have a product recommendation here? My daily driver wheels are next, and they have a lot more build up in those barrels on inspection. I have always just used the wheel brushes and soap/water to wash the barrels.

hb4lthr

If I am washing the car only and don't plan to wax it, I use the same soap on the wheels as I do on the body of the car. If I plan on waxing the car, then I will use Sonax Full Effects wheel cleaner. This is the stuff that goes on green then turns reds. I also use a Daytona wheel brush and will wax my wheels after using Sonax

cmonkey713

Sorry I did not see this post sooner. Depending on what condition the wheel barrels are in I would start with removing them and washing the wheels with Dawn, then using WD-40 to dissolve the tar. After the tar and dirt are gone give the wheels a good washing with Dawn to remove all the remaining residue from the tar and WD-40. After you are satisfied with the outcome, wax the entire wheel with your favorite product. there are actually "Wheel Wax" products you car get. Autogeek has several different product to choose from. Once you start maintaining the wheels they will be easier to keep that way. You may want to consider changing the brake pads to a low dusting ceramic to cut down on the brake dust.

WhiteDiamond

Interesting. I have 2 dedicated tar removal products for autos and neither did the trick. I found the WD-40 did the trick, as you state. Gave them an additional wash after and coated them. Will look into the "wheel wax" as you mention. Maybe a good sacrificial layer....

GoFast908Z

Completely removing and cleaning the wheels and then applying a ceramic coating will make life WAY easier for cleaning and will last far beyond any wheel wax.

tony abbski

WhiteDiamond

Agreed. They, my wheels, are coated and I am looking into the wheel wax in terms of removability, as it may turn out to be a good sacrificial layer to give the coating under it a longer life. No matter what, the metallic and such involved with braking are going to wreck havoc on any surface a wheel has.

LMB-Z

Not sure about your cup wheels. My wheels are chrome, so are the barrels. I use a little gasoline on a rag to remove the tar spots in the barrels. Then a good coat of wax. 5+ years and no problems.