There are readily available solvents for removing silicone, was, tar, etc., from automotive lacquer and enamel finishes prior to re-painting. The DuPont product is called "Prep-Sol Solvent." Other suppliers of automotive paint supplies have similar solvents. A good auto parts store will stock a product like this; so will stores selling automotive paint finishing supplies. They're also excellent degreasers for general use around the workshop; e.g., cleaning chains, chainwheels, any greasy parts. I buy a gallon can and it lasts years for me.
Pete Rutledge
Woodbridge, VA
> Listers-
> I acquired a bike not long ago that has a tremendous amount of waxy
build-up.
> Its not the "attractive" patina kind either. Its yellow, dull, sticky when
I
> washed the frame with soap and water, and is hiding a beautiful paint job
> beneath it. Is there any way I can get rid of this stuff? I cleaned up
some area
> with rubbing alcohol and it made the wax "softer", but its still a mess
that
> covers the complete frame. How do I get rid of it? Are there any solvents
and/or
> other methods to clean it off while not damaging the wonderful glossy
paint
> beneath? Any suggestions would be much appreciated. Cheers,
> Dave Anderson
> Cut Bank MT