Keeping 3M 4200, etc. useable???

[tmh]

OK, I'm sick of having to go buy new caulk type products when I have an almost full tube of the stuff left, but just can't get it to squeeze out properly! I put the caps on right after using and still it hardens up in the tube. I read somewhere (maybe this forum) about how to keep the tubes of these type products useable. It may have had something to do with keeping them in the freezer or fridge? I can't find the thread.

Anyone have a solution? Also, do they flow significantly better when very warm?

 

[Boomyal]

Re: Keeping 3M 4200, etc. useable???

Aggravating! I have more partially empty tubes of things, including 3M 4200, and none of them last very long once you open them. Add em all up and they represent a few dollars that just get tossed.

I don't know why that would be the case as they have not been exposed to air. I've tried refridgerating things, I've tried putting them in ziploc baggies and sucking the air out of them, but nothing works. I think it is a conspiracy.

 

[sport15]

Re: Keeping 3M 4200, etc. useable???

A capitalist plot devised by boat hating BIG OIL or 3M, yeah that's it ...

The @#$! plungers get stuck to the tube on the BACK end with some of these wonderful adhesives... It's THE MAN doing it to us AGAIN!!!

Unrelated?

There is the trick of spritsing some mineral spirits in the opened varnish can then topping it with propane from your handy torch (unlit of course AND choked so no air mixes in) before putting the cover on. NOT OSHA approved of course but at $25 quart... BUT that doesn't help with the 42/5200..

 

[KRS]

Re: Keeping 3M 4200, etc. useable???

Use the full tube when you open it !!! Sheesh !





A little fun at your expense there