I'm getting low on MEK, and have noticed that a 'substitute' is available. Don't know how good that substitute is, but if like a lot of other substitutes, probably not as good. I need to get back to looking for some real stuff at smaller hardware stores around the area before it becomes totally unavailable.
I too use MEK as a plastic solvent. Pretty powerful stuff, you'll notice that it is unavailable in any container except for metal. I call it the super-glue for plastics.
I haven't checked lately, but for years 'Oatey'-brand clear pipe cleaner for PVC plastic pipe was nothing more than MEK. Hopefully it still is. A pint can of Oatey probably cost as much, if not more, than a quart can of MEK, but it should last a long time if used for model building. Work quickly when using it and keep it capped as often as possible, because it evaporates extremely fast.
