a cool tool for cleaning caps

December 4, 2004

.... I wonder if I should perhaps try something like a tiny bit of Simichrome inside (and rinse it off, of course)....or is that too harsh on a clear plastic barrel?

Anyone know?

No one wants to answer my Simichrome question....

December 4, 2004

.... I wonder if I should perhaps try something like a tiny bit of Simichrome inside (and rinse it off, of course)....or is that too harsh on a clear plastic barrel?

Anyone know?
No one wants to answer my Simichrome question....

Well, perhaps it is a lack of experience. Keith uses Simichrome for polishing - perhaps he should answer.

My guess (since I've never used Simichrome) is that it's like a lot of other polishes - it contains microscopic abrasives that do the cleaning / polishing. If they are fine enough, the resulting polishing job will be a high gloss. If not, it will be necesary to progress to a finer grade of polish and repeat the polishing process.

Therefore your answer is that Simichrome may be the answer you are looking for. You can prove this with a test application. If the barrel doesn't polish up as expected, the downside is that you'll have to repolish with something like Micro Gloss.

There is not likely to be an irreversable outcome should Simichrome not work as desired, but it might take a fair amount of effort to restore the final gloss you want. It is very likely to remove the stains you want gone.

Regards

Gerry

December 4, 2004

Thanks, Gerry. I am hoping that Keith will chime in.....and Dennis L. too (since he is our forum moderator) since I know he uses Simichrome.....

I guess I could do a little test application and see what happens, but I am still a tad concerned about the residue from the Simichrome affecting the ink inside....and consequently the nib and feed.....Maybe I am too cautious.

Yoo-hoo! Dennis and Keith, where are you?

Well, I tried a bit of Simichrome on the inside of the stained Omas Extra (was clear white, now pinkish ) barrel and it seemed to take some of the PR Plum stain out, but not 100%. I made sure to rinse the barrel out with soapy water afterwards....Had a heck of a time threading the little piston back into the turning knob so it (the knob) would lie flush with the barrel, though! Anyway, I used a bit of the silicone grease I bought and used it to lubricate the inside of the barrel so everything turned out OK....