How To Clean A Chrome Rim

[Ji Gantor]

This is the method I use to clean and prepare a chromed steel rim, If you have a better way or have had an experience that may help please post your constructive comments.

Start out by inspecting the rim. See if there are any cracks or deep rust pits.
If this is all good I start by removing the rim tape. The rim tape is usually a ring of rubber that protects the tube from any sharp sections on the nipples or spoke ends. The rim tape can also be insulation tape wrapped around the rim a few times. In my case the last person to service the rim used masking tape. Masking tape is not the best product to use as it disintegrates into a gooey mess. It also looks like it trapped water between itself and the rim making the chrome flake off and the corrosion begin.

Ji

[Ji Gantor]

I then used a S/S wire brush and mineral turps to clean off the rust scale and masking tape.
This gives a better picture of what is underneath.

Ji

[Ji Gantor]

Now the rim is kinda clean I have noticed rust bubbling under the chrome. This has to be removed or it will continue to eat away at the steel rim. I now go up a gear and use a air wire brush and some Kero.
This removes even more chrome flakes and rust. It will also dull the good chrome but that is what is needed to save the steel rim.

Ji

[Ji Gantor]

That is all for now as it will take some time to get to the next stage.

Ji

[Ji Gantor]

Steel rims have these drain holes.
Use some filtered compressed air and blast as much rust and dirt out as you can.
When the rim is near completion I will be injecting Fisholene into these holes to prevent further rusting.
Half and half Diesel and Kero would work fine as well.

Ji