Ultraviolet light question

[Anonymous]

Yes Jack i think so.

Ian

[tangerine-jack]

Armorall is almost pure silicone, your stuff will be shiny and very slippery, but will be protected against UV rays. The problem is that it will replace the plastic's natural oils with the silicone, so if you STOP using it, your stuff will crack and peel as it dries out. Rene had good experience because she kept applying the product on a regular basis, as per the manufacturer's instructions.

I would reccomend against this aproach, there are other ways of protecting you stuff without turning your trains onto a silicone addiction. Occasionaly running the non-UV stuff, taking it indoors or storing it in the shade is a good option that costs nothing. Remember, it takes a while for UV damage to happen.

Automotive clear coats (available at any auto parts store) are UV protective, check the container for this info and be sure to check compatability with your current finish. Most are gloss, but can be covered by Dullcote to tone down the shine.

The last option is to repaint your equipment with UV protective paint. Draconian, but it works. Not an option for anything collectable or sentimental.

Just my [2c]


[oX)]

[Rene Schweitzer]

David,

Your question caught my attention. Several years ago, the Classic Toy Train staff members read something on the toy train email list that Armorall actually deteriorates plastic. While I don't know much about those claims, I can speak from personal experience. My previous car was a 1982, bought by my parents in 1990 (and still is around). Twice a year, for 7 years, I applied Armorall to the plastic inside the car (dash, arm rests, etc.) It did not deteriorate, nor did it fade or crack. I consider that quite a feat considering the hot summers and dark interior of the car.

I found this on the company web site. At the bottom it says to apply three coats for the most protection. Perhaps you have a shell or something you can test this on first?

http://www.armorall.com/prodcat/pages/protectant_2.2.html

[FJ and G]

Yesterday I was at Pep Boy and noticed a can of Armoral. They claim the contents can be used to recondition plastic-like material and prevent UV damage.

Has anyone used this stuff before (or other stuff like it) to prevent UV damage?

I know that G stuff already is UV protected but I have some 3-rail ABS plastic stuff I wanted to use when I complete my 3-rail O garden layout.

If no one knows, I can always operate my wood and diecast equipment in the sun and wait until there's no sun to operate the ABS stuff.

Thanks for advice.