[Congaree BC]

Hi folks,
I just bought a great used clarinet (hard rubber - not wood). It appeared to have been wonderfully restored with new cork and pads. When it arrived today, I had to step back after I opened the box (yes the outer box) because of the strong odor of some sort of solvent. When I removed the case and opened it, the fumes were really overwhelming. I removed the clarinet (which really does look great) and threw the case in the outside garbage because I couldn't stand the smell. It wasn't any good anyway. I was really hoping that the case was the source of the smell, but it isn't. I have just spent quite awhile wiping down this instrument both inside and out and getting every nook and cranny reachable. It still burns my nose and I can't imagine trying to play it. I'm used to smelling gasoline, paint, etc. so it's not just a sensitive nose issue. (No, I don't smell them on purpose :bluewink

My questions are:

• What kind of solvent do you think it is.
• Will it evaporate?
• If not, is it removable?
• If so, can I remove the solvent without taking everything apart?
• Should I call the EPA to handle it as HazMat? (just kidding)

Thanks for any help. :|
Congaree BC

 

[Dog Pants]

We can't really smell it from here. Ask the seller.

 

[Congaree BC]

Are you sure you can't? Still waiting on answer from seller. May be waiting a looooonggggg time....

 

[Congaree BC]

Nevermind. took care of it.

 

[Gordon (NZ)]

How?

BTW, it could be a solvent carrier in a substandard bore oil that has been applied.

 

[tictactux]

Bore oil? On a hard rubber clarinet?
But maybe you're right - we haven't possibly seen everything.

Maybe it was some magic formula for bringing the black luster back to a greenish instrument. (one of my main gripes with fixing up HR clarinets - they always look kinda dirty and/or dull, regardless of the care used in the work)