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Protecting alloys

Claying, polishing, waxing... share your secrets in here.
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Lazza
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Protecting alloys

Post by Lazza » Wed Jan 16, 2019 11:58 pm

I might well be fitting new alloys, probably in the spring. Is there something I can use to protect them? I’m thinking one of those ceramic coating products or something.
I don’t mind paying someone to do it if it means they stay cleaner for longer, are easier to clean and look like new wheels for longer.
Mine is a daily driver so gets used in all weathers, it’s not a pampered garage queen 8)
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buzyg
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Protecting alloys

Post by buzyg » Thu Jan 17, 2019 12:39 am

Most common treatment is to apply wheel wax. Gives a little soft protection and certainly makes them easier to clean and keep looking shiny. :D
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Zedtastic
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Protecting alloys

Post by Zedtastic » Thu Jan 17, 2019 6:50 am

I've just applied Gtechniq C5 ceramic coating to my new wheels. They say you need to buy 30ml for 17" or bigger, but i didnt even use half the bottle on my 18" wheels (and i did the insides too), so save some money and buy the 15ml. Its easy enough to DIY. Plenty of youtube videos showing how to apply. Its supposed to last 2 years.
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Lazza
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Protecting alloys

Post by Lazza » Thu Jan 17, 2019 11:59 pm

That sounds like the sort of thing Zedtastic. I’ve tried the usual wheel waxes and none of them seem to last long and don’t seem to be any better than using bodywork sealant & wax. The inside of a wheel is a pretty harsh place so not a surprise really.
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ben g
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Protecting alloys

Post by ben g » Sat Jan 19, 2019 8:58 pm

I used the C5 on my alloys after I had them refurbished almost 2 years ago. I only use car shampoo to clean my alloys and they clean up 'as new' even after all this time. Great stuff :thumbsup:

I think if you were to use harsh chemicals to clean alloys then it would probably affect the longevity of the protection, but if you apply the coating from new then you definitely won't need to use anything other than your bodywork shampoo to remove all dirt and brake dust.
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Lazza
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Protecting alloys

Post by Lazza » Mon Jan 21, 2019 12:18 am

Thanks Ben, applying a coating while the alloys are new is the plan! :thumbsup:
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