Date   : Wed, 01 Nov 2006 11:43:18 +0000
From   : peterbilt@... (Paul J)
Subject: de-yellowing cases?

Hi,

Yes, I looked into this a while back, but have not found a solution. I think
it is possible, as I read a post on an unrelated subject removing the
yellowing on a white plastic model from 60s. The problem seems to be
exposure to sunlight and UV, I picked up my old dreamcast and notice part
off the controller had started to yellow, but the console was fine; I used
to lay controller on carpet where it picked up a lot of direct sunlight
during the day, the console was always in shade.

I had a broken beeb case, and you can see the yellowing does not penetrate
into the plastic; it is only on the surface, but is a chemical reaction so
you can't rub it off like paint. One thing I thought off trying is the spray
oven cleaner, had heard this is good for stripping paint off some plastics
without damaging the plastic, even plated chrome. Need to spray the cleaner
on, put it in a plastic bag, and leave it for a week outside in the shed or
garage. Need to take care with fumes, and trying out on a test peice as it
could melt the plastic. Just never got round to trying, and resigned myself
to leaving the cases yellow.

Would be interested to hear if anyone has any other ideas,

Regards,
Paul.