umamartin•1mo agoMost Upvoted

I've been using the wrong solvent on composite panels for years

A new guy at the hangar in Tampa asked why I was using acetone, and showed me the manual that specifically says not to. It was for a Cessna 172R composite wingtip repair. What's the best safe cleaner you all use for that kind of work?

3 comments

3 Comments

west.henry1mo agoProlific Poster

Wait, acetone on composite? That's a big no. The manual is right, it can really mess with the resin. I switched to a simple soap and water mix for light cleaning years ago.

ruby_rivera761mo ago

You used acetone on composite for years?

julia_miller241mo ago

My old boat manual said acetone was fine, but that was printed in 2004. @west.henry is right about newer resins being more sensitive. I stick with a citrus based cleaner now, it cuts grease without the risk.