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Cleaning clear parts

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  • Member since
    June 2017
  • From: Pottsboro,Tx
Cleaning clear parts
Posted by Mars on Sunday, July 2, 2017 7:21 PM

Is it ok to clean clear parts with alcohol before painting?

  • Member since
    April 2009
  • From: Longmont, Colorado
Posted by Cadet Chuck on Sunday, July 2, 2017 7:22 PM

I use only soap and water, just to be safe.

Gimme a pigfoot, and a bottle of beer...

  • Member since
    October 2010
Posted by hypertex on Monday, July 3, 2017 5:52 AM

What kind of alcohol? Isopropyl alcohol should be absolutely fine. I've left clear styrene submerged in IP alcohol for two weeks and it showed no ill-effects.

I would be cautious about using anything labeled 'denatured' alcohol. Some brands will have a bit of MEK in it, which will likely damage styrene. Read the label and test on some sprue before you use it on a windshield or canopy.

  • Member since
    November 2008
  • From: Central Florida
Posted by plasticjunkie on Monday, July 3, 2017 8:17 AM

Why not use a super fine polish like Novus or Simoniz Swirl Remover? Not only will the part be cleaned but will be polished to crystal clarity.

 GIFMaker.org_jy_Ayj_O

 

 

Too many models to build, not enough time in a lifetime!!

  • Member since
    November 2009
  • From: Twin Cities of Minnesota
Posted by Don Stauffer on Monday, July 3, 2017 8:29 AM

hypertex

What kind of alcohol? Isopropyl alcohol should be absolutely fine. I've left clear styrene submerged in IP alcohol for two weeks and it showed no ill-effects.

I would be cautious about using anything labeled 'denatured' alcohol. Some brands will have a bit of MEK in it, which will likely damage styrene. Read the label and test on some sprue before you use it on a windshield or canopy.

 

Agree!  You want isopropyl.  Mild soap and water are fine, but I keep a bottle of iso on my bench- handy, no mixing required.

 

Don Stauffer in Minnesota

  • Member since
    March 2013
Posted by patrick206 on Monday, July 3, 2017 4:22 PM

I agree with Don, Stik is also right. I wash all parts in mild soap and water when kit is opened, two rinses to remove all residue. Novus is a great product for cleaning and polishing the clear parts.

Iso alcohol has yet to harm anything I have used it on, over many years. I stick with major brand names, for consistent quality.

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