Cosmoline Removal

**Emptymag** · December 16th, 2012, 01:23 AM

Cosmoline - that wonderful, smelly, preserver of all things steel.

I've cleaned up a Cosmoline caked SKS in the past, so I'm generally familiar with the various methods of removal, but I'm now looking to get it off of some accessories, and I'm wondering...

What's the best way to get the stuff off of painted surfaces without harming the finish?

I picked up a set of accessories that include a magazine, bayonet, and grenade launching spigot for an AK47.
When I cleaned my SKS, I use mineral spirits. (paint thinner)
I was hoping there was a better way so I don't ruin the finish on the mag and the bayonet.

Any first hand experience?

**yeager484** · December 16th, 2012, 01:27 AM

I picked up a ... grenade launching spigot

Aren't you worried that thing will just...go off...without you doing anything?

Back to reality..good luck with your cleaning. Looks pretty awesome!

**USMC3531** · December 16th, 2012, 02:29 AM

use a heatgun/hairdrier set it to blow as hard as it can and dont get any area too hot.

**762xIan** · December 16th, 2012, 07:56 AM

When I cleaned my SKS, I use mineral spirits. (paint thinner)
I was hoping there was a better way so I don't ruin the finish on the mag and the bayonet.

Mineral spirits shouldn't harm the finish, that and an old tooth brush or similar soft bristle brush. Mineral spirits don't have really anything harsh in them for removing dried paint, its good for thinning oil base paints and cleanup of brushes but should leave the finish on your pieces alone. There isn't any MEK, Acetone or other nasties that may harm a finish in it so I think you will be fine.

I myself have access to a large parts washer, I have done most of my cosmo removal in it, scrubbing the bejeezus out of every nook and cranny.