Abstract: A method for wiping coated wire or strip which emerges vertically from a bath of molten metal, wherein the coated wire or strip, passes vertically through a pad wiping zone located above and spaced apart from the bath of molten metal. A pad wiping assembly is provided above the bath of molten metal and is adjustable by adjustment means from a position exterior the bath of molten metal.The pad wiping assembly includes pad wiping material in the form of compressed non-combustible material and strip or wire wiping pads are replaceable.