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cleaning chrome surfaces
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AuthorMessage
disemjg
Joined: 10 Jan 2002
Posts: 474
PostPosted: Fri Jan 09, 2004 5:33 pm

I have encountered several cameras with stained chrome, evidently a nicotine residue from the days when the photogs smoked like chimneys. Instead of being relatively white, the chrome surfaces are an irregular golden brown, depending on the severity of the coating. I have a Pacemaker Speed on my bench right now that is really coated and discolored. This coating does not want to clean up with any of the common solvents I have tried (denatured alcohol, Goo Off, Goof Off, lighter fluid,etc.). Does anyone know of a solvent to remove this stuff?

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: disemjg on 2004-01-09 09:34 ]</font>

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: disemjg on 2004-01-09 09:35 ]</font>
t.r.sanford
Joined: 10 Nov 2003
Posts: 812
PostPosted: Fri Jan 09, 2004 5:46 pm

The first thing I'd try is a liquid household cleanser like "Fantastik," applied with a cotton swab. The next thing would be a gentle metal polish like "Flitz" or (if you can still get it) "Silvo."

Incidentally, I've got this kind of staining on the silver areas of the labels on the backs of my film pack adapters. I have a feeling those labels are paper, and I am very reluctant to try anything heroic to clean them. I'd be interested in suggestions or comments.

I'm holding onto the FPAs because (of course) film pack WILL come back...
disemjg
Joined: 10 Jan 2002
Posts: 474
PostPosted: Fri Jan 09, 2004 5:51 pm

If the labels on your film packs are like mine, they are decals and are very delicate. They will never withstand harsh cleaning methods. Try gentle cleaners and do not allow them to soak as the decals may soften. I am going to root around in the utility cabinet to see what kind of household cleaners I have, and will attack the chrome stains with them. Thanks.
disemjg
Joined: 10 Jan 2002
Posts: 474
PostPosted: Fri Jan 09, 2004 11:42 pm

The stains are gone. The best household cure is SHOUT laundry stain remover, with multiple applicatons and scrubbing with a soft brush. Complete disassembly is required as the process is messy and requires thourough washing afterwards. Small areas could of course be spot treated carefully.
45PSS
Joined: 28 Sep 2001
Posts: 4081
PostPosted: Sat Jan 10, 2004 3:04 am

<a href=http://www.mothers.com/><font color=white>MOTHERS</a></font> Mag and Aluminum Polish and 1/2oz. elbow grease.
All previous suggestions require 1 lb. elbow graease.
Chalres
glennfromwy
Joined: 29 Nov 2001
Posts: 903
PostPosted: Sat Jan 10, 2004 5:43 am

Formula 409
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