JeffB

On your rivet application test pieces... Did you apply any kind of decal setting solution? This is key to getting the decal film to settle and dissolve so that it is less visible. JB

I'd like to echo the sentiment of a few on WD-40. It's a fairly effective cleaner for metal parts. It removes old oil or other lubricant fairly efficiently. I recall being told that it is basically Kerosene, with a more pleasing fragrance added. It makes an excellent cutting/tapping/machining fluid for aluminum, but it's not a lubricant at all. For degreasing and removing rosin soldering flux, I use white spirits almost exclusively (which is known as "Paint Thinner" or "Mineral Spirits" here in the USA). It is an excellent metal cleaner, but really dries out the metal (raw steel cleaned with it will rust very quickly if left untreated). I submerge entire mechanisms (motor and all) in it for a while, then use compressed air (outside of course) to blow everything dry. Lubricate everything lightly with Labelle 108 oil, turn the motor shaft by hand several revolutions and it should be ready to go. For a "smell friendly" cleaner, regular 91% IPA/rubbing alcohol works OK, but don't submerge motors in it, as it can desolve some varnishes that are used on the windings for insulation. For cleaning metal prior to using Loctite retaining compound or ACC, I use Acetone, which is also a great ACC desolver (on metal assemblies only!!!). Jeff