Cleaning Trailer Rims

D

Dora~Jean

Active member
I've got a nagging problem that's just getting worse. My trailer's galvanized rims have turned from their original bright finish to a dull black. I have 4-wheel SS disk brakes, it is surely disk brake dust that seems to be baked into the metal. I've tried 409 and Simple Green with little to no effect. Before I get out the bigger chemical guns like acetone, laquer thinner, etc, any ideas from others? Thanks in advance.
 
Steve-

If you're hesitant to use any of the "hot" solvents, you might try to use straight oil based paint thinner/solvent first.

Soak 'em good with solvent rubbed in with a brush, then use a pressure washer with warm water if you have it.

Good Luck!

Joe.
 
I used to have a BMW M-3 whose disc brakes continually buried the fancy wheels with brake dust. There is a special cleaner you can get at the auto parts store to loosen bonded brake dust that works great. However, it may also be an acidic product which is likely to reduce your galvanized layer. You may have to just pull the wheels and paint them flat black!

John
 
John --- I really like your style, thinking the same thing. But first will have to get down to a clean surface so the paint will stick. I'll check some auto stores also, thanks.
 
Having alot of farm equipment I know they sell paint that sticks to galvanizing. Most of it is gray. I think they sell other colors. You may have to check with a small town hardware store or a Farmer's Co-Op.

John
 
I have the same problem and was thinking of using one of the anti-rust/galvanizing spray paints that you can get at any hardware store. I have used one to touch up (after cleaning) minor rust spots on fencing and on my trailer where the original coat got scratched. Seems to work fine.
Do you also get problems with the pads sticking to the disks if the trailer has been sitting a few days ?? I do and the darned thing has been rinsed 2 times and also washed with Salt Away.

Merv
 
I haven't had any trouble with sticking disk pads. After pulling forward sharply just before backing into my driveway (uphill), I put on my brake disabler I fabbed. Even though I have a lockout solenoid hooked to my backup lights, if I ever have to stop and pull forward to reposition without the mechanical disabler, the brakes will lock on hard -- that's because the lockout solenoid is only a valve that prevents FURTHER hydraulic pressure from being applied. If the brakes are ON when the solenoid energizes, the brakes just stay at that same pressure, they won't release.
 
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