tips for cleaning up steel rims

BigSpecs
BigSpecs Posts: 309
edited October 2007 in Workshop
I have some old 27 inchers that are going on a fixed project I have going on. The rims are steel and pitted/ rusty. Does anyone have a magic way of cleaning these up? Can I wire brush them or is the surface streated?
PS Don't worry about the fact that steel rims are c**P especially for stopping in the wet, as I said there will be mainly fixed braking going on...

Comments

  • Monty Dog
    Monty Dog Posts: 20,614
    Most steel rims are chrome plated, so once corroded it's impossible to restore the finish. Seriously, try and find some 27" alloy rims - having a good working rim brake on a fixie is essential and a steel rim could be a potential liability.
    Make mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..
  • Bronzie
    Bronzie Posts: 4,927
    Monty Dog wrote:
    having a good working rim brake on a fixie is essential and a steel rim could be a potential liability.
    2nd that - I use my brakes more on the fixie than normal road bike because I can't go over 27mph without my legs falling off - the thought of going down a big hill without being to scrub off some speed would put the fear of God into me.
    It's a Lifestyle! -+-+- Coggan Training Levels
  • BigSpecs
    BigSpecs Posts: 309
    I know where you're coming from guys but this is strictly a low budget operation. Of course, if anyone has an old pair (or even front) of alloy 27inchers kicking about in the garage be sure to let me know...a good home...maybe even some coins exchanged... :wink:
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Posts: 79,667
    BigSpecs wrote:
    I know where you're coming from guys but this is strictly a low budget operation. Of course, if anyone has an old pair (or even front) of alloy 27inchers kicking about in the garage be sure to let me know...a good home...maybe even some coins exchanged... :wink:

    I have a pair, plus new Gatorskins tyres. A project that work got in the way of.
    The front is unused, the rear virtually unused but will need redishing and possibly a couple of new spokes.
    It currently has a screw on 6 speed block. If you need more info let me know.
    Postage plus £40 they are yours complete with tyres..
  • pete.whelan
    pete.whelan Posts: 788
    if you really must clean them, then some '000' grade steel wool and some liquid chrome cleaner. used together
    Recipe: shave legs sparingly, rub in embrocation and drizzle with freshly squeezed baby oil.
  • BigSpecs
    BigSpecs Posts: 309
    Anton de Lacey wrote:
    I have a pair, plus new Gatorskins tyres. A project that work got in the way of.
    The front is unused, the rear virtually unused but will need redishing and possibly a couple of new spokes.
    It currently has a screw on 6 speed block. If you need more info let me know.
    Postage plus £40 they are yours complete with tyres..

    Can you get Gatorskins for 27's? I didn't realise. If you are looking to off load them anton, send me some pics and we can talk :D
    My e-mail should be on my profile page.
    Cheers, Col
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Posts: 79,667
    BigSpecs wrote:
    Anton de Lacey wrote:
    I have a pair, plus new Gatorskins tyres. A project that work got in the way of.
    The front is unused, the rear virtually unused but will need redishing and possibly a couple of new spokes.
    It currently has a screw on 6 speed block. If you need more info let me know.
    Postage plus £40 they are yours complete with tyres..

    Can you get Gatorskins for 27's? I didn't realise. If you are looking to off load them anton, send me some pics and we can talk :D
    My e-mail should be on my profile page.
    Cheers, Col

    OK.BS
    Will send pics of tyres and wheels.
    Could be next Monday as somewhat tied up for the weekend .
    Anton
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Posts: 79,667
    P.S.
    Colin,your email is not showing on your profile.
    I will pm you when the pics are ready.
    Cheers,Anton

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