Removing the clear coat from your aluminum rims can revitalize their appearance. Whether you’re preparing for a fresh coat of paint or simply want to restore their original shine, choosing the right clear coat remover is crucial. This guide explores various stripping methods, from commercially available products to DIY solutions, offering insights into their effectiveness and application techniques.
Choosing the Right Clear Coat Remover
Several clear coat removers are available on the market, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. While methylene chloride-based strippers were once highly effective, they are now restricted in several states (CA, CO, CT, DE, MD, NH, RI, UT) due to environmental concerns.
Commercial Strippers:
- Klean-Strip AR4000 (Aircraft Ultra Paint Remover): While unavailable in some states, anecdotal evidence suggests this methylene chloride-free option provides results comparable to older, more potent formulas.
- Jasco Stripper: Among the non-methylene chloride strippers readily available at most retailers, Jasco often stands out as a more effective choice for removing clear coat from aluminum rims.
- Citristrip: This widely available, plant-based stripper is a decent option for tackling clear coat on wheels. It may require multiple applications but is generally less aggressive than chemical alternatives.
- Safenol: Another plant-based option, Safenol, can remove clear coat but might be less effective than Citristrip, especially on colored wheel paint. It’s suitable for clear coated wheels and removing spray paint from steel.
Application Techniques for Effective Stripping
The key to successful clear coat removal lies in proper application. Regardless of the chosen stripper, these techniques will maximize effectiveness:
- Generous Application: Apply a thick layer of stripper, aiming for at least 1/8 inch. Avoid using a brush; instead, pour directly from the bottle onto the rim and spread evenly. This ensures sufficient contact with the clear coat for optimal breakdown.
- Occlusion: Cover the applied stripper with plastic sheeting (newspaper bags or punctured air-pillow packaging work well) to trap the chemicals and prevent evaporation. This prolongs the stripper’s effectiveness, allowing it to penetrate the clear coat more thoroughly.
- Dwell Time: Allow the stripper to dwell for several hours, or even overnight. Heat may accelerate the process; placing the wheel in a black trash bag in direct sunlight can enhance the stripper’s action.
- Multiple Applications: Don’t hesitate to repeat the process if the clear coat doesn’t come off easily after the first application. Repeated applications with ample dwell time are more effective than excessive scraping.
Scraping and Clean-up
- Plastic Putty Knife: A plastic putty knife is indispensable for scraping away the softened clear coat. Avoid metal tools, which can scratch the aluminum.
- Patience is Key: Let the stripper do the work. Avoid forceful scraping, as this can damage the underlying surface.
- Thorough Cleaning: After removing the clear coat, thoroughly clean the rims with soap and water to remove any residual stripper.
Conclusion
Removing clear coat from aluminum rims is achievable with the right products and techniques. While methylene chloride-based strippers offer potent performance, readily available alternatives like Jasco and Citristrip can deliver satisfactory results. Remember to prioritize safety, follow product instructions meticulously, and exercise patience for optimal results. Choosing the best clear coat remover for aluminum rims depends on availability, environmental concerns, and the specific project requirements. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first before applying the stripper to the entire wheel.
