[Boatanchors] Chippewa

[Freeberg, Scott (STP)]

Hi Paul, I didn't see anyone mention my favorite, GOJO hand cleaner (WITHOUT PUMICE) and a toothbrush.  I bought a 75A4 from California several years ago and I was disappointed at its faded paint and worn out condition when it arrived.  I actually studied the wrinkle finish with a high power magnifying glass and discovered the valleys were filled with something. I subsequently realized the radio was coated in nicotine.  It didnt smell though.  I tried Windex and it didn't remove a thing.  Someone on the Collins list suggested GOJO and a toothbrush so I tried it.  What a mess.  I probably went through a whole roll of paper towels.  I would dab an area maybe 4 or 5 inches, scrub it with the soft bristle tooth brush, let it set for a minute, wipe with a clean paper towel, repeat.  It took several applications to totally remove the grime.  I was alarmed at first when the paper towel would come up black or brown.  I was hoping that was grime and not original finish !!!!  When cleaning around the silkscreening, I did back off quite a bit and not apply as much pressure or vigor :)  The clean up results were incredible.  The 75A-4 looks brand new.  The finish has a beautiful luster and sheen. 

The knobs were dull, crappy, and pitted as well.  Brasso was recommended to me.  So I took each knob off, used a clean soft rag, and would rub the Brasso until I was satisfied with the finish.  The ham giving the Brasso recommendation said I could shine up those knobs until they were like little mirrors :))))))))  The knobs cleaned up fine.  
I used the brasso on the escrutchen as well.  

Oh a name from the past K9RIJ.  I know K9RIJ Bob from Milton, great guy. We were members of the Tri-Country ARC.
73, Scott WA9WFA
http://www.qsl.net/wa9wfa