How to Clean Rust From Chrome Spokes

Chrome spokes are part of a wheel. They are rods radiating from the hub and attached to the rim. Spokes are found in wheels for all types of vehicles, from bicycles and motorcycles to cars and trucks. Chrome spokes are subject to rusting when the metal combines with moisture, such as water, dampness or humidity. Although the spokes usually have a protective coating that prevents rust, this coating is removed over time from wear and tear, scratches and other damage. But cleaning off the rust is very doable.

Things You'll Need

  • Scrubbing pad
  • Mineral oil or WD-40
  • Rust remover
  • Gloves
  • Paper towels
  • Scrub the rust. Use a scrubbing pad to remove the rust off the spokes. For small rust stains, scrubbing may be all that is needed to clean the spokes.

  • Use a lubricant. Buy either mineral oil or WD-40 from a store. Pour a small amount of mineral oil into a clean cloth or paper towel and then apply it to the rust stains on the chrome. If using WD-40, spray it on the rust. Leave the lubricant on for 15 minutes. Then scrub off the rust with a scrubbing pad. Wipe off the rust and lubricant with a damp paper towel. Dry the spokes completely.

  • Use a rust remover. Buy rust remover online, at a hardware store or at a home improvement center. Also purchase gloves. Put a small amount of rust remover onto a paper towel and then apply it to all the rust stains on the spokes. Let it stand for five to 10 minutes. Scrub off the rust with a scrubbing pad. Repeat this process if the rust is not completely gone. Most rust removers have hydrochloric acid, oxalic acid or phosphoric acid to dissolve the rust.