hi,
it was a pretty harsh winter here in MD and i couldn't get around to changing a brake pad in time before it started doing metal on metal. Now i guess the shavings from that went all over my rim and became orange. Any tips on how to remove this film? soap and water and scrubbing don't work very well. (attached pic)

 

Disclaimer: Never done this, but something I would try.

If it truly is rust try CLR (Calcium,Lime, Rust) or Iron Out. Both can be found at Walmart or a grocery store in the household cleaning area. Some stores have the Iron Out in the laundry area. I suggest those two because they are not caustic and you really can't screw it up.

On to what I have used. If neither of those cut it, my next move would be an acidic wheel cleaner. If you use that though it is critical that you not leave it on too long as it is an etching agent meant for unfinished aluminum, but works really well for neglected wheels with a lot of brake dust build up. Just don't leave it on for more than 60 seconds, hot/warm wheels, or direct sunlight. Any situation where it drys quickly. You may have to track down a car care supply place that supplies car dealers and detail shops to get it, or maybe get a detail shop to sell you a small amount of theirs.

 

I wouldn't use CLR on an alloy wheel, that stuff is a fairly strong acid, and that will attack the alloy.

better detergent, hot water, small parts cleaner brush, lots of elbow grease.

these wheels are painted, with wirth silver wheel paint, which is an epoxy of some sort.

 

I had that happen to my Virgos when my caliper piston seized, wearing down my pad to the backing plate. I first used a scotch-brite pad, but it didn't work very well. Soap didn't do much, so I ended up using steel wool. I can't say for certain that I didn't scratch the finish of my wheels (they were already a little dull to begin with) but I can say with certainty the steel wool didn't take off any paint or put in any deep scratches.

 

ok thanks...i was going to try evaporust when the weather got a little warmer (instructions say 65 degrees at least), and it's non acidic too.