Ideas, goo-removal from new Sherpa?

[Danneaux]

Hi All,

As I'm settling in with my new Sherpa, I noticed a coating that seems to have been applied to it that is very difficult to remove, and I'm hoping some of you might have some ideas.

It is primarily on the wheels and chainset (rings and arms), and feels much like a sort of dried cosmoline, of the type used to coat firearms in shipping to prevent corrosion in-transit.  I suspect this may be errant overspray of WaxOyl or Framesaver (if applied?), or perhaps some sort of compound used in wheelbuilding.  Oddly, it doesn't seem to be on the frame itself.  It is fairly clear, vaguely sticky, and almost resembles a shellac now it has aged a bit.  As mentioned, it is on the spokes and centers of the wheel rims,  and there are runs over the sidewalls of the rims as well.  It is also on the crankarms.  It seems to collect dust pretty well.

I've tried 99% isopropyl alcohol on the rim sidewalls to no effect, and a detergent mix and plain water on the painted or anodized surfaces.  That helped on the crankarms where the coating is thinner.

Anyone else noticed this or dealt with it?

I'm a bit further from Thorn than some of you (USA), so perhaps this was something done differently in view of the anticipated shipping?  At any rate, all ideas for (non-destructive) removal are most welcome.

Best,

Dan.

[slim]

Dan, I suspect a step was missed in the preparation of your bike. My matt black Nomad 11 was shipped to Melbourne, Aus. It arrived with pristine paint work. No goo at all. I would speculate that the frames are shipped from Taiwan with the goo coating and then warehoused in that condition until orders come in. Best contact Thorn and ask them what they use.

[Danneaux]

Thank you, Slim; I appreciate your thoughts.  As it happens, the goo was not on the frame at all, just the wheels and cranks.  I'm lucky there!

I did try some spray cleaner on a soft cloth this afternoon, and allowed it to soak in a little.  It seems to be doing the trick, but is a bit of a slow go.  The product I am using is called "Spic and Span" and is pretty harmless to most surfaces and seems to be doing well in this application.

Best,

Dan.

[julk]

Dan,
I find Finish Line - EcoTech-2 Degreaser good at removing sticky and greasy substances without attacking the underlying surface.
It is water soluble and can be washed off easily to complete the job.

Their original degreaser, whilst very effective, is too aggressive for shiny plastics and probably tyres.
Julian.

[Danneaux]

Thanks, Julian; your suggestion for a compatible cleaner is most welcome, and I will be giving it a try.  It sounds like a great product to have on hand in any case, and one with many uses.  Reassuring to find you've had no problems in use, and  like the water-soluble nature and easy wash-off.  I appreciate the warning about the original FinishLine degreaser.

What a terrific forum!

Best,

Dan.