I was under the impression any brand of plastic from that generation could create this reaction. There were a variety of plastic formulations which decayed in this way.
I think potentially yes, although it’s not a problem that affects all ”plastic” materials, but specifically cellulose acetate, which can decay, giving off acetic acid. This is the fluid that is sometimes seen, and both it and it’s vapour are quite corrosive, hence the rusting problems.
Different atmospheric conditions affect the rate of decay, including temperature, humidity, and exposure to U.V. One manufacturer that I spoke to briefly some years ago assured me that there were variations between different products, and the eras in which they were produced, and that “modern” (at the time 1990’s) cellulose acetate was much more stable.
The old Snap On “Contour Grip” handles (below) were made from cellulose acetate (specifically Eastman Tenite) as are many drivers today, such as the Vessel I pictured above. The majority have no issues.
I am aware, however, that Snap On changed materials with their next generation of hard handles (Power Grip). I believe these to be a DuPont material, possibly one of the Zytel family.
This is essentially a nylon, is much more stable, and I’ve never encountered it degrading. The downside of Nylon is that it tends to be softer, though that isn’t an issue with these handles, which I think are the best out there, bar none.
This is what you pay Snap On money for. My much loved Power Grip bit driver is shown below, with it’s T handled cousin.
