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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Aluminum Wheel Restoration

I have a set of aluminum wheels for a Ford Ranger that have baked on brake dust. What is the best way to get the dust/rust off and restore the original shine? Thanks, Pat

Patrick Marshall
Arborist - Blairstown, New Jersey
2007

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Your wheels most likely have a clearcoat paint on top of the aluminum. You should be able to remove the brake dust with a mild detergent, warm water, and a little elbow grease. You could probably check at an auto supply store for a wheel cleaner. That should give you as much "shine" as you can reasonably expect.

If the paint is damaged/dulled/etc., then you're looking at some expensive rework. It'd probably be easier to just buy new wheels if the appearance is that important to you.

Christian M. Restifo
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
2007