Adhesive removal from Acetate Screwdrivers

[Jtels85]

I purchased some new old stock Craftsman USA acetate screwdrivers from an antique mall today. The seller had string price tags tied around the screwdriver handles, wrapped with electrical tape. I removed the tape and the handles are sticky in spots.

I seem to recall using either rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone many years ago for a similar problem and it removed the blue coloring from the bottom of the screwdriver handle.

What would be a good adhesive remover that won’t ruin or crystallize over the acetate? Thanks!

 

[Rockable]

Goo Gone is what I would try IF you cant rub it off with just friction. Any other solvent will attack the plastic for sure.

 

[JohnC1957]

Goo Gone is my vote also. It scrubs off with detergent and water is my experience

 

[Jtels85]

It must have been rubbing alcohol I used in the past the ruined a screwdriver. Thanks guys for your help. We’re heading to dinner soon and I will swing by the store and get Goo Gone.

 

[CGarage]

Why not WD40 ???

I have found it works perfectly to remove adhesive.

 

[haveissues]

Careful with isopropyl alcohol. It can cause micro cracks in some types of plastics.

 

[4xdog]

Don't use alcohols on cellulosic plastics!

Try mineral spirits.

 

[Jtels85]

Goo Gone did the trick and I wiped them down with glass cleaner afterwards. Into the portable tool box they went.

Thanks for your help guys.

 

[Wamsutta]

Goo Gone did the trick and I wiped them down with glass cleaner afterwards. Into the portable tool box they went.

Thanks for your help guys.

Stay away from glass cleaner with ammonia. I use rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle.

 

[ALinCarolina]

I would first try naptha. It seems less "strong" that other solvents. For instance nitrile gloves don't break down as much with naptha as with things like acetone, lacquer thinner, or Xylene. there are products specifically for removing adhesive tape residue from skin. I don't know the ingredient but some advertise "alcohol free". Seems like they would be milder than what I typically use.

 

[cmandp]

Depending on the adhesive, oils work too. Like Olive oil, vegetable oil or mineral oil then you have to degrease.

 

[CGarage]

Again, why not WD40?