MINI COOPER :: North American Motoring - How to remove Black Magic Marker from wheels?

raadkins16 · #1 11-02-2005, 09:49 AM

SO for some strange reason, when I got the S-lites for my car each of them has a small tringle that was marked on each wheel by something that looks like a sharpie or permanent black marker.. I have been told the reason why they are there is because I am a dumba$$ for buying S-lites and run flats, which I definitely agree with now

. however, I want to remove these and wondered if anyone knew something that might work. Thanks!

VoiD · #2 11-02-2005, 09:54 AM

Use mild abrasives or lightly sand it? I dunno.

tom64taylor · #3 11-02-2005, 09:59 AM

Film Cleaner - you may have to wax your wheels again to regain protection but this solution will not harm the clearcoat or paint on the wheels. I have used it in the past to remove marks or prep area for 3M adhesive strips if I am adding something to my car. Film cleaner can be found where you buy film chemicals for print.

Jerseygirl · #4 11-02-2005, 09:59 AM

Perhaps something like Goof Off would remove it?

inimmini · #5 11-02-2005, 10:19 AM

Interesting, I'll remember this -- a little black triangle means "dumba$$".

Anyways, acetone usually removes permanent marker. I'd use it sparingly as I'm sure it will tend to swell the clear coat (probably an acrylic) if you soak it too long. This should be reversible when the acetone evaporates, but you never know if it could cause haze or something -- I'd test anything you try first on the inner side of the wheel.

Quote:

Originally Posted by raadkins16

SO for some strange reason, when I got the S-lites for my car each of them has a small tringle that was marked on each wheel by something that looks like a sharpie or permanent black marker.. I have been told the reason why they are there is because I am a dumba$$ for buying S-lites and run flats, which I definitely agree with now

. however, I want to remove these and wondered if anyone knew something that might work. Thanks!

K4KAS · #6 11-02-2005, 11:16 AM

Try rubbing a dry erase marker over it and wipe it before it dries.
I have read all the opinions on the S-lites. My opinion, still stands, they are the best looking OEM wheels. In white of course. IMHO

**Tüls** · #7 11-02-2005, 11:23 AM

Rubbing alcohal worked for me last week...came right of...apply to cotton rag ...scrub

Jerseygirl · #8 11-02-2005, 11:27 AM

I would avoid acetone at all costs. Try the rubbing alcohol and/or Goof Off first. Heck, try ANYTHING else first. Acetone and painted finishes (or at least painted finishes you care about) should not mix.

raadkins16 · #9 11-02-2005, 12:21 PM

wow thanks for all the opinions, that was fast! I will try the less abrasive opinions first and see how it goes.

As for the S-lite comment, I definitely like the way the look, just not the way they weigh and how bad the ride and tramlining got after.

raadkins16 · #10 11-02-2005, 12:48 PM

wow I think I'm in love... I decided to try another use for the Mr Clean magic Eraser that my sister bought, I used it on everything, and it took the black marks off instantly!

agranger · #11 11-02-2005, 01:07 PM

Those little things are MAGIC on the interior as well!

jwardell · #12 11-04-2005, 01:44 PM

Permanent markers/sharpies are alcohol based, so rubbing alcohol should remove it.

Red Ryder · #13 11-04-2005, 02:18 PM

Goo-Gone should work. As well, use NuFinish which has a solvent in it that will not hurt the wheel. At the same time it puts a polymer that will protect the finish. I have used this on my 5-star wheels.

asodestrom · #14 11-04-2005, 03:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by K4KAS

Try rubbing a dry erase marker over it and wipe it before it dries.
I have read all the opinions on the S-lites. My opinion, still stands, they are the best looking OEM wheels. In white of course. IMHO

Dry eraseable markers are great for permanent markers. Do what K4KAS says.

Frank in Toledo · #15 11-06-2005, 07:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by raadkins16

I have been told the reason why they are there is because I am a dumba$$ for buying S-lites and run flats, which I definitely agree with now

. ...

I need to ask a dumb question. Why is someone a dumba$$ for buying S-lites and run flats?

danbanger · #16 11-06-2005, 02:17 PM

heavy, harsh ride, and poor grip (all gathered from the general concensus of post that I've read as I've never driven with them)

paul_ · #17 11-16-2005, 08:48 AM

I didn't notice black triangles ont our S-Lites, but there was this gooey grey stuff...does that mean "dumb$h!t?

agranger · #18 11-16-2005, 11:53 AM

The gooey grey stuff is Cosmoline... a waxy protectant that MINI (and many other manufacturers) spray on cars before shipping. WD-40 (or hot water, as used at the VPC) will remove it nicely.