Changed my mind about CLA kits after a mishap in Portland

Was working on a Canon F-1 at a repair meetup in Portland last month. Guy next to me opens his CLA kit and starts going at it with cheap tools. Told me he uses only isopropyl alcohol and a toothpick for most of the cleaning. I always thought you needed the full professional solvent set. But he showed me his results on a beat up shutter - looked brand new after. Now I'm questioning if I'm overbuying on supplies. Anyone else simplified their cleaning process?

2 comments

2 Comments

palmer.jana5d ago

Did he tell you he was using straight isopropyl? Because the problem with that isn't the cleaning power, it's the water content. Most drugstore isopropyl has a little water mixed in, and that water can get into the brass gears and cause corrosion over time. I switched to using lighter fluid for the tough gunk and a dry microfiber for dust. It's way cheaper than the fancy kits and I haven't had any problems. Do you ever worry about long term damage from household cleaners?

cameron_chen4d ago

Nah man, I used to be the same way with the full pro kit. I was all about the special solvents and micro-tools thinking it was the only way to do it right. But seeing that guy in Portland just hit me different with the isopropyl and a toothpick. I mean, I've been using lighter fluid for a while now on my own stuff just for the tough residue and honestly I haven't had any problems with corrosion or anything. Maybe it's just me but that whole experience made me realize I was definitely overcomplicating things. My go-to now is basically just 91% isopropyl for basic cleaning and a good microfiber cloth for the dust.