I would be very careful about the use of acids to remove finish of the rims. Acids have the nasty habit of causing some crystalization of the metallic aluminum. This can make the rim brittle. I'd actually suggest contacting the rim manufacture and ask what they would recommend. I'm positive they won't warrant it, but they might give some insight on how to better remove the finish without hurting the rims.
Good luck on getting the power company to pay for the rims from your 4 wheeling. I think they're gonna say sorry on that one.