Cleaning plasti-dipped rims can be challenging compared to regular rims and wheels because synthetic rubber can peel easily. Luckily, learning how to clean plasti dip tires is simple using this guide.
One of the cheapest ways to convert the rims on your car to an all-black look is plasti dip, a synthetic rubber that sprays on the rims and stays on for years.
Over time plasti dip can easily chip and peel due to road debris as well as from normal tire cleaning practices, such as car washes or the use of a power washer.
For a visual guide on how to clean plasti dipped rims, watch the following video
How To Clean Plasti Dip Rims
When cleaning plasti dipped rims it is essential that you use techniques that are non-abbrasive to avoid peeling the plasti dip.
The following materials do a fantastic job at cleaning plasti dipped rims easily and without harm to the dip itself.
The entire wash process will be done by hand to ensure proper cleaning of all plasti-dipped areas on the rims.
What You Will Need:
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Step 1: Prepare A Soapy Solution
Preparing the right solution to clean plasti dip is important, as some products contain chemicals that will eat right through the rubber. Always use a high-quality exterior car soap to ensure no unsafe chemicals are being used.
- Begin by filling a clean bucket halfway full with water. Once the bucket is full, add 2-3 ounces of exterior car soap.
- Submerge a microfiber cloth into the liquid and swirl it around to form bubbles in the mixture. The bubbles will allow the soap to stick to the plasti dip easily.
Step 2: Apply Soap To The Rims
While completing this step, apply the soap mixture to the rubber tires as well. It is likely that they need to be cleaned.
- Using the microfiber cloth in the soap solution, apply the soap on the rims, ensuring that it is between all spokes and around all of the lug nuts.
- Depending on if your solution is clinging to the rim or not, you may have to add more soap. If it is too runny, add 2 more ounces of exterior car soap to your solution.
Once the soap is applied to the plastic dip, allow it to sit for one minute before moving onto the next step.
3: Scrub The Rims By Hand
This step requires the most caution to ensure the plasti dip will not peel. Remember, do not use anything abrasive on the plasti dip.
- Take a new microfiber cloth and submerge it in the soap solution.
- Begin by lightly wiping the entire rim including all lugnuts, logos, spokes, and any other surface that has palsti dip.
- Any dirt or debris causing discoloration on the plasti dip will attach to the microfiber cloth
Note: As you go, rinse the microfiber cloth after you have cleaned a small section of the rims and tires. The built-up dirt in the cloth could peel the plasti dip. Also, consider using a soft bristled brush to target debris-heavy areas.
4: Rinse and Dry The Tires
Use a hose with light pressure to rinse the solution off of the tires and rims. Do not use a pressure washer as it will cause the plasti dip to peel.
If the plasti dip is fully cleaned, move on to drying the rims by using a microfiber cloth. If not, repeat steps 2-4 using the exterior soap solution.
Congratulations! You have successfully cleaned your plasti dip rims. Continue reading for more plasti dip tips and tricks!
Pasti Dip FAQ
What are all of the Plasti Dip Colors?
- Plati dip comes in a variety of great colors, including Red, Yellow, Black, White, Gunmetal Gray, and Blue
How long does Plasti Dip hold up?
- If applied properly, plasti dip can last for 3 years before there are any signs of wear and tear. The number of coats as well as spray distance during application play a large factor in how long it will last. For the most longevity, apply 4-6 coats.
Does plasti dip come off easily?
- Plasti Dip does come off easily if you intentionally try and peel it, but is durable enough to stay on for years even if your car sees heavy use.
Does plasti dip come off in a car wash?
- If the plasti dip has had the proper time to cure (5-6 Weeks) then it will not come off in a single carwash. If the dip is regularly run through the wash then you will begin to see signs of damage. Hand washing the plasti-dipped parts of your car is always recommended.
Can you pressure wash plasti dip?
- Plasti-dipped components should never be power washed unless the user is trying to remove the dip from their car. If you are trying to remove the dip then this is an effective technique.
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