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GE 201 Plaskon refinish - Printable Version

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GE 201 Plaskon refinish - 462ron - 03-03-2013

Just picked up this GE 201 plaskon today (couldn't
find a Philco ) and my question is how to clean and
shine up plaskon? Can it be sanded and then
buffed out or just cleaned and polished? Can you
machine buff or only hand rub? Thanks for any advice.

Ron

RE: GE 201 Plaskon refinish - Eliot Ness - 03-03-2013

Without seeing the set the general rule is to start with the least abrasive method first and then work your way up. I'd start with a mild cleaning using white (not orange) GoJo hand cleaner and then try an automotive cleaner/wax from Meguiar's or Mothers. Sanding would be my absolute last option and machine buffing has risks of damage or burning to a small cabinet that size.

RE: GE 201 Plaskon refinish - 462ron - 03-03-2013

Thanks John, the cabinet isn't too bad but looks
a bit yellowed compared to refinished ones I have
seen on various internet sites. It looks like it
has the potential to be better than it is now. I wasn't
sure how aggresive I could get with it as I only
found mostly bakelite or catalin refinishing info.

Ron

RE: GE 201 Plaskon refinish - Eliot Ness - 03-03-2013

You might want to try some fine polishing compounds in an inconspicuous area. Meguiars Scratch-X is usually available in most automotive departments. It isn't very harsh and requires a lot of elbow grease. Basically it works on the on the premise of diminishing abrasives; as you work the polish the abrasives gradually become finer and finer leaving a nicely polished surface:

http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?1516-How-to-remove-a-defect-by-hand-with-ScratchX

I should quantify that I haven't used Scratch-X on a Plaskon (or any plastic or Bakelite) radio so be careful. I think I'd still try the GoJo and cleaner wax first. There is a good chance that the Plaskon is discolored from age, heat, or sunlight and you just might have to accept it:

http://www.myantiqueradio.com/plastic.htm

I should also add that the Novus line is an accepted polish for plastics:

http://www.pilotgearonline.com/novus-plastic-polish.html?___store=default

But many of us find alternative products, such as Brasso (old formula), metal polishes, and auto polishes, etc., to work as well. Good luck and keep us posted with pictures!

RE: GE 201 Plaskon refinish - 462ron - 03-03-2013

Thanks John, I do have Novus products and Blue
Magic that I will try hoping it will perk up.

Ron