How is leatherette removed from old Retina?

[genazzano]

I have my recently purchased Retina 167 in front of me ready to be repaired and restored. However, instead of real leather, some of these 167s were covered with leatherette. I have been told by several knowledgeable people that removal is exceedingly difficult or simply not possible. Recovering this rare camera with new material is out of the question at least right now.

I was wondering if anyone had some guidance on this problem. I thought perhaps I would begin with a solvent that hopefully would soften the adhesive without dissolving the leatherette. Maybe lighter fluid? ...or something similar?

I only need to remove the bottom cover in order to replace the front door using a donor parts camera. The only serious damage to the cover material is on the front door.

David

[philbirch]

In my experience with 1950's cameras, a type of glue was used that stuck like the proverbial nuts to a blanket. It dried hard and is very difficult to remove. Naturally you will want it off in one piece so you can make a pattern.

I use paint stripper, the type of stuff you put on painted woodwork to strip it down. It is perfectly harmless to the metal, but keep it away from the paint work. Apply a little using a small brush and pull it gently as it softens.

Lighter fuel will do the same job but you will definitely need paint stripper to remove the scabbed up adhesive. A really messy process too I may add.

[Stephen]

You can also try acetone to soften the glue, usually a rubber adhesive, but keep off the paintwork.
Also try warming the leatherette with a hair dryer, it may be able to peel the leather off, if it can soften the glue. I have also used a soldering iron with a flat screwdriver head, filed to a fine chisel end, start peeling, and work side to side at the edge of the peel, it will melt most glues. My iron was a 25 watt ordinary soldering iron.

Stephen

[genazzano]

Heat... That's a good idea. I have one for stripping paint but I'll stick with my wife's hair dryer.

David

[philbirch]

Aug 12, 2014 14:55:55 GMT -5 genazzano said:

Heat... That's a good idea. I have one for stripping paint but I'll stick with my wife's hair dryer.

David

I've still got my hair dryer. Its been gathering dust for almost two decades.