Hi Guys !

I need some tips...

I have quite a few files (mainly needle files), that are caked with plastic residue or putty / filler.

What is the best way to get these files nice and clean and new new again ?

Thank in advance

Cheers

Paul

Try a wire brush.

hi,
There is a device known as a file card that looks like a wire brush but is wider & has shorter bristles designed specifically for cleaning files. Available at Micro-mark or any hardware store. Common wire brushes tend to dull files.
jake
hey,
thanks Rick,didn't hav a pic handy. And the source is Modelexpo.
jake

This is what you need...



A picture is worth a thousand words LOL.


cheers

That's what I was looking for John...

Either that or a chemical solution... anty thoughts on that guys ?

I would say paint thinner, and then brush it off with a old tooth brush and then wash off residue with water.

A soak in plain old lacquer thinner or acetone, then a brush down with ye'ode file card.

After cleaning, a light dusting and rub down with BABY POWDER helps keep them from clogging in the future. Plus they smell nice!

For my files I press duct tape or gorilla tape (has a stronger adhesive) to get the majority of the junk off the files. Afterward I'll take either a small wire brush to a tooth pick to pick out the stubborn filings.

I do it Grumpy's way. Baby powder also good for joiner or table saw beds and fences to keep them slick/drag free on cold winter days. Lightly blow off your cut wood pieces before applying finishes.
Rick

Thanks Guys - great info !

This is why Armorama is the best modelling site on the Web

I've ordered a Fire Card from 'Hobby Tools Australia'.

Cheers

Paul

The best thing I have seen for cleaning most things out of these files is "Berrymans Chemtool B-12" caurberator cleaner. It will clean out the paint and plastic. There are some things that no liquid will clean out such as polyester putty, for that I hold the file over an open flame for a few seconds.

When using Berrymans never use the spray can especially in the house, the fumes can easily cause a heart attack. I use a tall thin jar to dip the file in. Making sure the jar is in a stabil area. I did knock a jar over one time, it took me about 3 seconds to get out of the room. By the way, about 3 seconds in Berrymans, your file will be brand new clean, as I said before with the exception of polyester putty. By the way, again make SURE you get the open top can not the spray can if you choose to try it.

You can use the spray can outside and it works well.

I use an old toothbrush. But what I do is trim down the bristles by about half to make them stiffer. You can also use a dry washcloth or towel to wipe them down when you are using them. It helps reduce buildup.

I use a Dremel tool with a wire brush attachment, it works well for me.

I use a cigarette lighter and just burn it off!