What the best way to clean Chrome Wire Wheels

[Old Redneck]

On my 56 Thunderbird has chrome Wire Wheels. I need to find a way to clean them and protect them.How do you clean them? I just bought the 56 the first of the week. It has not been run for 12 years. It is in very good shape and was covered up and in a nice garage. Also sitting beside the 56 was a 63 Split Window Corvette. The both of them is in my shed now. Have not tried to start them yet just cleaning them up. The both of them is a frame up restoration.

 

[KULTULZ]

Wheels or covers? Photo?

 

[Old Redneck]

Chrome Wire Wheels

 

[miker98038]

Those look like the factory wheel covers with the center hub cap. I've used the foaming "non acid" cleaner. On full wires you can use the acid based, but on those it might get the paint on the steel wheel behind the spokes. I think it's either Mother's or McGuires wheel cleaner I've used. Foaming and acid free are the key words. They're a pain no matter what you use.

I blow them dry with the shop vac or my leaf blower. I'm too lazy for q tips these days.

 

[Marcus]

Redneck - post a picture of the doghouse you are living in....... I know your sweet wife has placed you in it, especially since you promised her the "last one was the last one...."
HUGE GRIN!! Seriously, great additions to the collection - got a picture of the split-window? The only ones who will complain about posting on the 'Barn are jealous.....sure wish I had mine back, but that collector from Florida wanted it waaaay more than I did!

 

[dmsfrr]

Those look like the factory wheel covers with the center hub cap.....

Old Redneck,
Yes, those are a two piece wheel cover. The outer 'wire basket' piece is held on with spring clips around the outer edge of the wheel.
Here's a couple photos of what they look like...

These are in fairly decent condition. I use spray window cleaner and a damp cloth on them.

 

[rotorwrench]

I always loved the look of the chrome wire wheels until I purchased some and had to take care of them. I sort of lost my love for them after that. It takes a lot of work to keep them looking good.

 

[wellcraft17]

I’ve always used a handful wet aluminum foil

 

[JimNNN]

What the best way to clean Chrome Wire Wheels

The answer is: send that car to me and I'll do it for free. It'll take about 8 months to complete the job, though.

 

[Ford56]

Wow, what a gorgeous car; really sharp.

 

[40 Deluxe]

If they are the covers, just throw them in the dishwasher (when your wife's not looking).