Can anyone tell me how to safely clean an early post war Lionel tender shell? This is the heavy black plastic with silver lettering one. Part number 1666T- 4. I have tried soap and water, and a little WD-40 but its not removing the stuck on film. The outside is not as bad as the inside which is completely white. Any proven tips would be appreciated.
Thanks
Gandy
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I've had very good look soaking plastic post war shells in a solution of mild dish soap (Palmolive or Dawn) and warm (not hot) water. Soak the shell at least overnight being sure it is fully submerged. Then take a soft toothbrush to it being careful of lettering and decals.
I have an EPA approved cleaner that will kill all sorts of mold. Do you ever travel up to SEPA. Maybe to Nicholas Trains. If so I'd be glad to put a little in a plastic bottle, one ounce makes a gallon, and you can try it.
If it is white stuff on the bare plastic, it's probably not mold. It's more likely to be the release agent they put in the steel injection mold when they made the plastic part.
Heat it up with a hair drier and see if it turns to beads of clear liquid. While it is still in the liquid phase, you can wipe it off with a rag.
Soaking the shell overnight in anything might loosen the paint that you want to keep.
Sometimes the mold release compound will seep throught paint too.
I don't know how or why, but it does.
You can get that white stuff off with white vinegar and water, using a tooth brush. Works for me.
Rob
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