Do you think your rims look bad but are hesitant to get new ones? You don’t need to search any further than Plasti Dip, a well-known rubberized coating that may dramatically improve the appearance of your rims without breaking the bank. Before starting this interesting do-it-yourself project, make sure your rims are thoroughly cleaned and prepared for optimum adherence. This post will discuss five excellent methods on how to clean rims before plasti dip, which will leave them looking gorgeous and catching the eyes while driving. Let’s get started on that lovely rim makeover and not let dirt and grime come in the way!
Tools Needed for Effective Rim Cleaning
- 1. Wheel Cleaning Brushes
- 2. Microfiber Cloths
- 3. Detailing Clay Bar
- 4. Lug Nut Brush
- 5. Pressure Washer
- 6. Steam Cleaner
- 7. Professional Rim Cleaner Solution
- 8. Buffing Machine With Pad
- 9. Wheel Woolies
- 10. Protectant Sealant Spray
5 Methods How To Clean Rims Before Plasti Dip
Here are the 5 methods that help you how to clean rims before plasti dip.
Method 1: Basic Soap And Water Wash
How effective the cleaning is will depend on the method of cleaning used: a simple soap and water wash. All you need is clean water, mild dish soap without any additional additives, and an excellent scrub brush. Even though this seems too straightforward, don’t undervalue the effectiveness of basic methods! To avoid obscuring your plasti dip job, gently yet completely scrub down each rim to get rid of any stubborn filth, grease, or dust. With this method, you can clean oxidized chrome rims also.
Method 2: Using a Degreaser
Spread the degreaser all over your rims and let it sit for a few minutes to let the magic happen. After that, start using a wheel brush or any other non-abrasive cleaning instrument to remove the dirt until every nook and cranny is spotless. Thoroughly rinse with water to get rid of any remaining dirt and make sure there are no degreasers left behind that can affect how well the Plasti Dip sticks to your rims. Finally, clean the rim with the microfiber cloth thoroughly. An air blower would be ideal for getting rid of any remaining moisture and preparing the surface for a flawless Plasti Dip finish.
Method 3: DIY Rim Cleaner Solution
This method uses safe, environmentally friendly common household materials like baking soda and distilled white vinegar.
To begin, combine equal parts warm water and distilled white vinegar to form the basis of this potent solution. Add baking soda until the fluid becomes somewhat bubbly.
Baking soda is a natural abrasive that works well for removing tough grime from rims. This mixture breaks up dirt deposits so they can be easily removed by going deeply into them. When the solution is applied, the bubbles lift the dirt off the surface, making it simpler to wipe or rinse off. With this easy tip at your disposal, you can add some glimmer to those dull rims before applying Plasti Dip!
Method 4: The Use Of a Clay Bar
An ideal tool for creating a perfect surface is a clay bar. While many people believe that washing alone can remove all filth and grime, a clay bar takes the cleaning to the next level by eliminating embedded impurities that washing cannot.
The benefit of utilizing a clay bar is that it may remove surface impurities like tar stains, brake dust, road dirt, and even overspray from prior paint jobs. These microscopic particles, which are difficult to perceive with the human eye, can obstruct Plasti Dip adhesion. By dragging the clay bar over the rim’s surface, you efficiently pull these impurities away, leaving a smooth and clean canvas ideal for Plasti Dip application.
Method 5: Sanding And Buffing Rims
This process goes over and above to achieve perfection by getting rid of any scratches or blemishes that could compromise the smooth appearance of your Plasti Dip-coated rims.
Gently but thoroughly scrape away flaws on dry rims using the appropriate sandpaper grit. For added ease, buff with a dedicated wheel buffer or even a regular drill that has been modified to accept a buffer attachment. To complete the process, remove any leftover debris before starting the Plasti Dip transformation. This method not only leaves the base of your wheels immaculate and polished for application, but it also improves their overall appearance.
Conclusion
The condition of your rims has a big impact on maintaining the overall look and functionality of your car. Rims should be cleaned according to instructions before applying Plasti Dip to achieve a durable and smooth surface. Remember to collect all the tools needed, give each rim a thorough wash, and use the right cleaning supplies. You may want to consider applying a protective coating or sealer to increase durability. Your wheels will last for many years if they are properly maintained. So why do we continue? Put these tips into action immediately to get the benefits of having spotless, well-maintained wheels on your vehicle.
FAQs:
1: Can you wash rims coated with Plasti Dip?
Yes, you can wash rims that have been coated with Plasti Dip.
2: Is it possible to use regular household cleaners to clean my powder-coated rims?
No, it’s better to use a light soap and some water or a cleaning designed especially for powder-coated wheels.
3. Should I clean my car first, then my rims?
To prevent any dirt or grime from spilling onto the sections that have already been cleaned, it is recommended that you clean your car’s rims before you wash it.
4. Can a pressure washer be used to clean my rims?
Use a low-pressure pressure washer if necessary, but take care not to spray the valve stem or any other fragile parts directly.
5. What is the best way to remove brake dust from my rims? Utilize a rim cleaner
designed especially for removing brake dust, then wait a short while before cleaning with a wheel brush.
Read More:- Cleaning Brake Rotors Without Removing Wheels