+1 for the noise probably being metal or sand embedded in your brake pads. Dirt big enough to make noise generally doesn't stick to rims (unless, as Michael said, there's tar or some other sticky substance involved), but you'd be amazed at how fast brake pads pick stuff up. In fact, if there is dirt on the rims, it's usually picked up by the pads the first time you brake. I use a sharpened spoke to dig stuff out of brake pads.
At the shop where I work, we use a standard diluted orange degreaser to clean wheels, but you have to be careful since it can leave a filmy residue. I usually clean all of the grime (mostly brake pad residue) off of the wheels, then wipe down the brake tracks with a clean rag. On Saturday, May 12, 2012 3:11:14 PM UTC-7, Zack wrote: > > Any protips for cleaning rims? > > i have seen people talk about using super light grade sandpaper, > simplegreen, rubbing alcohol, soap and water, etc. > > what do you guys do to clean up your rims? > > I currently have some dirty rims, and i can hear the dirt on the front > wheel when i am braking, so i am pretty sure i need to clean the pads and > the rim up, wondering what is best method to do it! > > > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "RBW Owners Bunch" group. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msg/rbw-owners-bunch/-/UyQ8oCtRVmUJ. To post to this group, send email to [email protected]. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected]. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
