Anything that reduces the amount of clean surface area for the adhesive tape to stick to reduces the performance of RimPro-Tec. We do not warranty the performance of RimPro-Tec which have been attached to wheels with existing rim damage.
You can use a solvent wipe like the one in the RimPro-Tec box or buy an adhesive wheel, available from RimPro-Tec, to clean the tape off.
The unique coiled manufacturing design of RimPro-Tec means that a RimPro-Tec Kit can be a one-size fits all for wheels ranging from 14“ to 22”. However, PLEASE NOTE: The 3M™ VHB™ adhesive tape used to attach RimPro-Tec to rims requires that there MUST be at least a 1/4" (6mm) smooth, flat surface all the way around the wheel to mount the product properly to the wheel. RimPro-Tec should not be installed If your wheel design does not have an adequate smooth, flat surface required for proper mounting.
In many cases RimPro-Tec can be installed to wheels with clip-on wheel balancing weights. The RimPro-Tec track design allows for cutting the track flush with either end of the wheel weight clip. The color insert can then be snapped into the track and bridged across the metal clip. Note: On your next tyre change ask your tire installer to use tape-on wheel balancing weights. Tape-on weights supplied by 3M use the same adhesive technology as used in RimPro-Tec.
A regular car wash or warm water and detergent are the best start to preparing your wheels for installing RimPro-Tec. DO NOT use any wax or shine products on your wheels or tyres before installing RimPro-Tec. Shine and polish products leave residues on the wheel surface which will reduce the adhesion of the 3M tape backed RimPro-Tec to your wheel. Any product containing silicone oil should NOT be used prior to installation of RimPro-Tec. Shine and polish products may be applied AFTER installing RimPro-Tec. The alcohol preparation wipes included in your RimPro-Tec Kit should be used to make a final cleaning of the wheel rim surface that the RimPro-Tec will be attached to. The preparation wipe should be used immediately prior to installing your RimPro-Tec. It is only necessary to use the preparation wipe on the part of the wheel surface that the RimPro-Tec will be attached to.
RimPro-Tec are a defensive product intended to reduce the potential for scratches and light scuffs to your rims. They DO NOT protect wheel rims from damage in all cases. Like a car bumper, they are intended to absorb some of the impact with road hazards in an effort to avoid more serious damage to what is behind them. The same as for your bumper, in many cases the RimPro-Tec will be damaged, but damage to the rims behind your RimPro-Tec will be reduced. RimPro-Tec perform best in slow speed maneuvering conditions such as parallel parking and driving into car wash tracks. The best way to think of the value in using RimPro-Tec is like this: Without RimPro-Tec your bare rims are like riding a motorcycle without your leathers on. With RimPro-Tec your rims are dressed in the equivalent of a leather jacket and leather pants - in the colors of your choice!
The current RimPro-Tec system has been under development for over 2 years. RimPro-Tec installed as long as two years ago continue to perform without problem in real-life installations. Accelerated performance testing indicates that undamaged RimPro-Tec should last for up to 2 years and 30,000 miles. In general, they should be treated as a wear item that should be replaced whenever you replace your worn tyres. Inserts can be taken out and re-inserted if damaged or you just want to changeout the colour.
RimPro-Tec can be removed after installation by prying up at the joint ends of the mounting tracks. Take care to slowly pull the mounting track directly up from the rim surface. Adhesive tape that left on the rim can be rubbed off using a wood or plastic tool and mineral spirits or similar solvent.
Any sharp knife or cutters can be used. Scoring the track and insert with a pocket knife works very well. When bent away from the score mark the plastic will snapoff with a clean square edge. Dog or cat claw trimmers can be more safe to work with around your rims and tyres and work very well. The plastic coils of the RimPro-Tec have at least 4 to 6 inches of extra length even for 22“ wheel sizes. It is best to make a few sample cuts to practice your cutting technique and to make sure you are starting with a clean edge of plastic and adhesive tape.
Yes. RimPro-Tec can stand up to repeated car washing. They are a good defense against the various bumps and jolts your rims may encounter in the car wash system. Note: Check to make sure your RimPro-Tec are firmly in place before entering the car wash. It is also recommended that you check your RimPro-Tec coming out of the car wash. Make sure the snap-in color inserts have not been knocked loose from their mounting tracks by any of the equipment or wheel guides in the car wash. Please do not wash your wheel before full cure of tape is established (72 hours after application).
Unless care is taken and the proper equipment used, RimPro-Tec can be damaged during tire changes. It is important to let your tyre change technician know you have RimPro-Tec installed. For best results we recommend putting RimPro-Tec on wheels when new or when relatively new tires are fitted.
Properly installed, securely fastened, undamaged wheel RimPro-Tecs do not come off under normal driving conditions. However, they are a wear item on your car. It is recommeded that RimPro-Tec be replaced when changing tyres on your vehicle, or after 3 years of service life. If you kerb your wheel it is advised to check your RimPro-Tec and if damaged, take off and replace.