factory wheel refinish

[KB in MD]

our factory wheels are clear coat over silver. I believe they are aluminum or similar. The clear coat is peeling in some areas and nonexistent in other areas. I was knocking some of the oxidation off with steel wool as it was easier than wet sanding. I wanted to smooth everything out then hit it with a few coats of clear. Do I have to remove ALL of the factory clear coating before i clear coat it? Or can i just smooth it out before laying my clear?
Thanks

[RTexasF]

If you want what you are applying to stay on then it needs a proper surface to adhere to. Previous clear still on the wheel is not the proper surface.

If you are just patching it up to sell then just spray it and buyer beware.

[KB in MD]

NVM.
I answered my own question. The bad spots will still show through the clear so i must remove all