I use Simple Green non automotive formula to clean my wheels and that removes most of the brake dust from the wheels, before I was them off. I like using it beacuse their aren't any harsh chemicals to ruin the finish on the wheels.

 

smells great, too!

I've tried a bunch of 'wheel brushes' too, but find that using mah fingers usually does a better job in the nooks n crannies.

 

i use the armor all wheel cleaner if i am in a hurry and just want them clean enough to be passable, but you can't beat warm water, dish soap, and a sponge with a light coat of wax after to make them sparkle.

 

Any number of wheel cleaners work well, but I don't suggest using them unless attacking baked-on deposits. Most wheel cleaners rely on acids. Automotive soap, like Meguiars Gold Class as an OTC option, and water are usually enough to clean wheels, provided they were taken care of to begin with. A good spoke brush helps greatly. I like using FK1 1000P high-temp sealant on wheels and calipers. Typically found waxes and sealants burn-off very quickly, but 1000P lasts quite a while and maintains a slick surface on the wheels that allows for very easy brake dust/dirt/road grime removal. You may want to visit the detailing forum for more info.

 

i've used eagle a2z rim cleaner. picked it up at pep boys, worked great. I've heard P21S gel is great too.

 

YUP

And dont let any acids, even the relatively gentle ones touch those babies. If you seal them, they come clean in a snap with just car shampoo

 

yeah the meguiars hot rims purple/pink stuff is what i used too. Only complaint is that it doesnt last long. I figure maybe 16 wheels and the bottle will be done.