highdesert67

thought I would clean up my aluminum wheels with krud kutter. It looks like it left some sort of powder residue layer behind . I can scrape it lately with a sharp edge and it will come off, but it takes some effort. Is there a cleaner or something else that I can use that will strip this dried powder coat it left behind off?

akdoggie

That dried powder coat as you call it, is actually the clear coat of the wheels. To remove it, paint remover is the best and easiest. I did a set of KR wheels last summer this way. I had to use 3 applications to get that all off. When I was done, I recleared them with Duplicolor wheel clear. I doubt if that is much different than stock clear, but i bought it anyways. They turned out really nice. I have another set of FX4 wheels, that 2 are that way, so I'll be doing them in a couple days so I have them done before winter hits.

highdesert67

So are you saying the Krud Kutter destroyed the clear coat ?

akdoggie

If it turned white and flakes, then yes, the KK got em.

highdesert67

How do you apply the duplicolor ? Sponge? Spray?

akdoggie

Spray on.

highdesert67

so I have to take wheels off? Is there any way to do it without taking wheels off?

RangoWA

I have steel wheels and painted mine white with screen printing gloss enamel white by brush. But I was a sign painter and that's not for everyone. Spraying is the best finish, apart from powder coating but I think they spray that too.

The clear was likely breaking down, which is why you went to measures to purdy them up. It only last so long, looks good for a long time but when the time comes it's a pain. I'd rather deal with raw aluminum. Once you get the clear off you can wet sand and polish them almost like chrome but they will need some tlc from time to time depending on your situation.

Automotive clear cannot be found in a spray can. Clear coats have a catalyst and cures hard as nails. I have whacked 1/2" thick cured remains in a Dixie cup with a mallet and not broken it.

highdesert67

Is it ok to use steel wool to take off clear coat ?

RangoWA

Maybe but I wouldn't. Wet/dry sandpaper would be much better to use. You can use it dry but it will load up on you. Even dry paper would be better. There's a wide range of grit, you may need to start with 220 to get anywhere but be mindful that you will need to sand down whatever scratches you inflict on them. It will be lots of work and even more difficult with the wheels and tires on.

Media blasting the naked rims would help a bunch. New rims even easier, lol.