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View Full Version : Is it safe to steam clean clear coated wheels ?



Webb
04-05-2012, 03:41 AM
Asking because a decent one at Home Depot goes for $120.00 and the top notch wheel cleaner is about $20.00,for me 1 bottle only last 1 cleaning.I believe the SC cleans better,but not sure with high heat would be safe for the clear coat or painted wheels.

604_Snooze
04-05-2012, 05:51 AM
Try out brown royal wheel cleaner.

megacabcummins
04-05-2012, 05:56 AM
I clean the underside of my truck with a commercial steam cleaner, nothing else will get it that clean. I am not sure about painted or coated wheels though, I would test it in a place you can't see very well if you can . I would also say it would depend on the the condition of the wheels, if there are any chips in the coating the steam cleaner could lift the coating off, but it also depends how close to the surface you get, and you HAVE to keep it moving.

Acer9103
04-05-2012, 07:44 AM
Have a link to the steamer?

dsottum
04-05-2012, 07:45 AM
People have washed cars with 380 deg F 120+ psi steamers (YouTube search Optima steamer) for mobile detailing, so you'll be alright.

Webb
04-05-2012, 08:31 AM
People have washed cars with 380 deg F 120+ psi steamers (YouTube search Optima steamer) for mobile detailing, so you'll be alright.

Yeah LOL the Optima Steamer is a monster,that thing most be in the thousands...:xyxthumbs:

I'm looking for a cheaper one at Home depot.

dsottum
04-05-2012, 08:36 AM
From what I've looked into it, if you want a good industrial steamer for household/light duty vehicle, the VX5000 is a great investment ($750 IIRC), it puts out 60ish PSI and is solid. Otherwise, for the sub-$150 range most steamers that aren't just mop steamers are pretty good. Amazon has a few that have great customer rating feedback hovering around the $100 (+/- $20) range, just don't expect miracles. I just brought myself to the realization that a pressure washer is much cheaper and will see more use than a steamer. I do plan on getting the VX5000 or stronger eventually though, their usefulness around the house is amazing.