I have a set of factory 5 spokes, the type that came on early Z/28s and later RS's and they have what appear to be brake dust embedded in them.

What would be a good way to clean them and possibly polish them? I also have a pair of factory 16" rims that look the same, are they made out of the same material? And could they be cleaned the same way?

 

They are made of similar material,both aluminum,with painted accents then clear coated.The clear coat has a tendency to peel after years depending on weather and type of cleanings.Make sure the cleaner you use is for clear coated/painted aluminum wheels(I use Meguiars All Wheel cleaner for a long time).You can use a brush(medium bristle - not stiff)for cleaning the wheels.Then you can use Meguiars,or Mother's,wheel polish after they are clean.

My '83 came with the 15" 5 spoke gold accented aluminum wheels but I've changed to the 16" IROC single stripe('85-'87 style)gold accent wheels on her.