[TheForge] OT - cleaning spray paint can nozzle-buttons

[Bob Ehrenberger]

Bruce,

What I do, is save the good ones when I empty a can. That way when I 
have one clog on me I just throw it away and get a good one that I have 
saved.  If the clog is down in the can, I use an ice pick to push on the 
valve at the top of the can and get things flowing. This can be messy so 
either wrap the end of the can with a rag or be ready to clean your hand up.

I built a spray can shaking machine a few years ago and have had very 
few clogged nozzles since then. I wrote an article about it for the BAM 
newsletter if you are interested in making one.  Go to www.bamsite.org 
and do a search to find it.

I also cut the empty cans in half to get the marble out to give to my 
grand kids. It also lets me smash the can for recycling

-- 
Bob Ehrenberger
Shelbyville, MO

----Original message ------
Date: Fri, 31 Oct 2014 16:18:28 -0400
From: "Bruce ."<freemab222 at gmail.com>
To: Blacksmithing List Sponsored by ABANA<theforge at mailman.qth.net>
Subject: [TheForge] OT - cleaning spray paint can nozzle-buttons


I've tried soaking those miserable clogged buttons in paint thinner, or,
with better luck, in Gunk.  But I just discovered that Brakleen (green can,
non-chlorinated) works a champ on the things.  I think the pressure + the
small tube are the real key, though the solvent itself isn't bad for the
job.  This will save me money.

Bruce
NJ