I just like the smell of MEK (and Acetone for that matter). But, as I
was pointing out a PROPER respirator is essential ...the charcoal
filter, organic vapor type. With the correct filter there is no odor of
solvent what so ever. The presents of MEK in the dope and the fabric
glue is one of the reasons to use a good two part urethane or industrial
grade epoxy to paint the fuselage tubes (or the correct powder
coating).The fuselage coating does not have to resist immersion in MEK
but does have to handle it until the solvent evaporates out during
application.

Bob wrote:

Aye, don't confuse smell with being "bad".

MEK is one of the less harmfull solvents.

Don't get me wrong, you had better take proper precautions, or you
will end up like me, somewhat sensitized to MEK and Toulene and
others....chills, sweats, headache .....

Plenty of ventilation, and a mask. Pick your mask carefully and get
expect advice, a simple cloth mask is just downright STUPID. I get a
chuckle when I pass the "Hollywood Nails" type places and the staff
are wearing paper masks. They do nothing!.

MEK is a great solvent, but it has it's specific purposes. Solvents
are often picked by their evaporation properties as well as what they
disolve. What is a subsitute could depend on the evaporation
properties.

Material compatibility is HUGE! When I was an Manufacturing Engr at a
rather large aerospace company, what ate what, solvent vs material was
a huge part of my job. Testing for material compatibility with
solvents took weeks.

Use what the manufacturer recommended, follow the written instructions
provided call the manufacturer if you have questions. What if the
solvent you pick disolves something you really care about? How would
you know?

"Bruce A. Frank" wrote in message ...
What is the reason for not using MEK? If you are wearing a respirator
with the proper filtration and solvent proof gloves there is no impact
on your body. The same equipment is requisite for any non-aqueous
solvent. There may be "solvents" even some water based types that can
work "as well as" MEK, but from the stand point of cleaning, dissolving
everything, you just cannot beat MEK.

MEK may actually be part of the solvent in the dope (some I have used
sure smelled as though it contained MEK...an odor that, to me, smells
good)

Michael Horowitz wrote:

I want to wipe down a wing prior to applying a coating of dope.
Is there an acceptable substitute for MEK? - Mike

--
Bruce A. Frank, Editor "Ford 3.8/4.2L Engine and V-6 STOL
Homebuilt Aircraft Newsletter"
| Publishing interesting material|
| on all aspects of alternative |
| engines and homebuilt aircraft.|
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