Ric, Years ago we spoke with a Protek rep and this (below) is basically what we were told as well. "Prolube" does not contain the "Cleaner" in the CLP yet has their proprietary formula (which Steinway likes to use, btw). It is the "C" (Cleaner) that has been in question. As far as the lubricant goes a chemist friend told us he "thought" it was a Teflon substance suspended in a polymer. The problem is when techs simply say "I used Protek", because this "C" ingredient may be something to avoid. Prolube, on the other hand, doesn't seem to be controversial. Also, the company rep told us to use "Prolube" mainly when applying it to metals as it bonds better, and the "CLP" to the cloth, felt, etc. This way the "C" cleans the metal or surfaces that it comes into contact with. (The "C" doesn't bond to metals) Of course, you could simply use my friend Joes "Goosejuice" and life as we know it would be better :>0 Regards, Jim -----Original Message----- From: caut-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:caut-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf Of Richard Brekne Sent: Sunday, September 14, 2008 12:58 PM To: Pianotech List; caut at ptg.org Subject: [CAUT] Proteck Hi Joe In response to your experiment suggestion, which seemed to point in the direction that you suspected there was some danger of Protek causing verdigris I would post this quote from a web side I just bumped into looking for info on the stuff. I have no idea whether the below statement is entirely true... but I was under the impression that Protek was a polymer based product. Still looking for more info on Proteks effect on wood. Ric Protek CLP is a cleaner, lubricant and protectant made from polymers. This product removes verdigris (the green crud) and protects against future build-up by coating the center pin and sealing the felt from moisture thus preventing oxidation. Unlike silicone, Protek will not run, dry out or become ineffective. Since Protek will not harm wood, plastic, metal or the piano finish, it is excellent for damper guide rail bushings, underlever lubrication, front and balance rail pins, capstan screws and squeaky knuckles. Widely used, very effective product.
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