In a message dated 11/9/03 1:31:43 PM Pacific Standard Time,
Bikerdaver@aol.com writes:
> 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,
>
It may be an old coat of clear paint! Here's a test/solution: apply some
lacquer thinner with a rag (it needs a several seconds to work) and scrape the
area with your thumbnail. If it comes off, it's probably paint. Be very careful
around decals, lacquer thinner will ruin them if they aren't varnished over.
I'm using this technique to get an old, nasty coat of yellowed clear off a
Flying Scott track frame!
Stevan Thomas
Alameda, CA