Lionel 2023 shells -- white residue

It was once explained to me, back in the 70's , that it was a combination of the early plastics used, and the mold release, as well as the conditions it was stored under.. It almost looked like white mold? I have removed it with a babies tooth brush and  Ivory soap, (DO NOT GO OVER THE LETTERING) or any decals . try a small out of the way area first!

I have always heard it was a mold release compound called stearic acid leaching out.

On bare plastic, heat works well as the link to my video shows.

On painted plastic shells, it works but use less heat and work quickly to avoid damage to paint our plastic.

Jim

Use a hair dryer on low. This will liquefy the mold and use a paper towel to absorb it. This will get most all of it. Then a soft tooth brush with liquid soap for grill areas.

I've had good luck with a toothbrush and WD40.

Hairdryer on low...and a dose of patience.

Your wife won't mind you borrowing her hair dryer,

Thanks for all the excellent suggestions.  I never would have thought of using heat.

Is this similar to what often appears on older Gilbert Flyer couplers?

Mark in Oregon

Mark,

Yes. Flyer couplers and wheels show this same problem.

It had to be something about the molding process in the late 40s and early 50s for all manufacturers. It didn't seem to be a problem from about the mid-50s on.

Jim