Hand Tool Restoration - Decomposed Plastic Handle Fix

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Music - "The Creek" by Topher Mohr and Alex Elena
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Fair Use: In the rare instance I include someone else’s footage it is covered in Fair Use for Documentary and Educational purposes with intention of driving commentary and allowing freedom of speech.

[@ScoutCrafter]

Awesome restoration!!!! The comments that always bother me the most is when people say "Why don't you just dip it in Acetone"! The internet is awesome and garbage at the same time! lol A lot of times the cellulose handles were not mixed properly so the batch was prone to this type failure. Craftsman and Xcelite were notorious for having these problems. The good part was Craftsman used to have a lifetime warranty but people abused it and now good luck with that! I have one pesky Craftsman Professional style screwdriver that fogs up all the time and they don't make that stye any longer so I keep it, but every time I open the screwdriver drawer it laughs at me! I never tried clearing over the bad screwdriver but maybe the lack of air will stabilize it... Hmmm Good stuff!!! Thanks for sharing!!!!!!

[@357magdad]

Thanks! I think I'm going to let it sit in my shop for a while and see if it starts to degrade again. If it looks like it is stable, I may try to clear coat it for an experiment.

[@DavidPlass]

Worlds are colliding! I was going to suggest to 357magdad to watch the ScoutCrafter vid on cellulose handle restoration but I suspect they already did!

[@357magdad]

Watching ScoutCrafter and Joe's Shop inspired me to start making tool restoration videos. Thanks for watching!

[@DavidPlass]

@@357magdad You've got a new sub!

[@357magdad]

Thanks for subscribing!

[@robertcornelius3514]

Old guy here, and I'm really proud of you to take the time and clean up the old tool. I must have done the same to nearly a thousand tools in my day.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching Robert! If you like cleaning up old tools, I think you will enjoy my channel! Check out my latest project: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qn3beZanrdt0ZpY

[@marcmckenzie5110]

The most telling part of your reproduction​ and the power of Elbow Grease was when. you scraped off the red sections with your pocket knife and it changed immensely! I admire your low tech, minimal tool approach - it shows we can all bring new life into products. That doesn't make corporate America so happy, but it did me!

[@357magdad]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video! Low-tech minimal is my middle name! LOL

[@josephmarino3045]

Enjoyed your video very much. I can remember that funky craftsman smell in the early '70s my first got a hold of my father's brand new Craftsman drivers. I know that smell very well over the last over 50+ years. They all seem to get that smell and that white powdery texture some worse than others.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching Joseph! That smell is why I'm a big fan of wood handle tools!

[@ArmandoLoni]

Here via Scoutcrafter and now subscribed!! I'm also a fan of plastic/resin handled tools. Thanks!

[@357magdad]

Thank you and thank you for subscribing!

[@markadams7597]

You've taught me a valuable lesson about acetone, thanks! Great review, I appreciate the post.

[@357magdad]

Thanks Mark! Check out my more recent plastic handle project: kzbin.info/www/bejne/haOXp6djbZaMedk

[@MarkH10]

I love this. It seems that the 2 ingredients that went the furthest were ingenuity, experimentation, and har.......3, 3 ingredients that went the furthest were ingenuity, experimentation, and most importantly, Hard Work. I noticed that the real gains only came after you broke open a can of elbow grease. ( Just so you know, ScoutCrafter mentioned you and linked, so I came to look, and I like what I see. I subbed/belled, and YT analytics likes views, so I will both watch and NOT skip ads, if you have them. That will really ad up for you)

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! ScoutCrafter is the master!

[@georgerudawsky1083]

I’m glad I’m not the only one that loves to restore and keep using old tools. I have an old screwdriver that needs this same resorption so I appreciate your video. My father’s SkilSaw from the early 60s is still a great (albeit heavy) saw that I still use regularly.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! I'm glad my video was helpful!

[@kevinbrassil9836]

Nice job. I can’t believe the way it started off and what you brought it back to.

[@357magdad]

Thanks! I have that screwdriver hanging in my shop. The decomposition hasn't returned, but it still smells bad!

[@richard2mitchell]

@@357magdad have you tried a thin coat of epoxy to seal it?

[@ikm64]

The commentary was excellent, definitely one of those labor of love type of projects...great restoration job though...

[@357magdad]

Thanks! I have that screwdriver hanging in my shop - the decomposition has not returned!

[@mantaship]

This is is a master class in restoration for this tool. So for anyone who thinks all the time and effort for a $0.25 screwdriver is a waste, the phrase you daddy never taught you is 'skill set'. Praise for this save, and THIS LEVEL of save. #throwawaythethrowawayculture

[@solosniper86]

Well said! Down with the throwaway society!

[@4thgradedropout980]

I agree 100%. In reality, the functionality of this tool was uncompromised by the wear. I understand what you said. Just saying.

[@philparker1666]

Astounding restoration, nice to see Scoutcrafters comments 👍

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! ScoutCrafter got me interested in making videos about cleaning up old tools!

[@scottjones5013]

Very nice restoration almost as good as Scott crafters laugh out loud excellent job excellent job hope you do more to restorations enjoyed it very much thanks for the videos

[@357magdad]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video. ScoutCrafter is the MAN!

[@solosniper86]

I've never even heard of Scott Crafters! How is that possible?! Darn you faulty KZbin algorithm! Thanks for making me aware of another restoration channel. 😊

[@stevef8993]

Nice job 357Magdad! That cleared up nicely!

[@357magdad]

Thanks! I I'm not sure if the plastic will continue to degrade. It's been about 3 weeks since I did the restoration and the handle still looks good!

[@josephlopez8428]

Came out beautiful. I love to see people take care of their tools 👌

[@357magdad]

Thanks Joseph!

[@tonylenge424]

I am playing catch-up with your videos. I really enjoyed this one. Love the trial and error, you learn so much. Thanks

[@357magdad]

Thanks! I'm keeping an eye on the handle to see if it starts to decompose again.

[@solosniper86]

You're an inspiration to us fellow tool revivers. Well done sir.

[@357magdad]

Thanks! I'm glad you are enjoying my projects!

[@dryocum]

You did it!!!! It came out nice!!!

[@357magdad]

Thanks! I have this screwdriver hanging in my shop. It still looks good - the decomposition has not returned.

[@stevewalker7822]

I really appreciate what you try and showing what works for your restorations.

[@357magdad]

Thanks Steve! I thought this screwdriver would be a good item to experiment on!

[@magichands8817]

Craftsman Acetate handle knife-blade exfoliation, LOL. End result is AMAZING! Great job!

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! I have this screwdriver hanging on my project wall. The decomposition has not returned, but the smell is still there!

[@ijaripanju3408]

I don't know why but the part of the video when you scrape the crust off with the blade .... was very satisfying to watch , like relaxing almost 😌. Lol weird comment aside. Awesome video ,

[@357magdad]

Thanks! Cleaning up old tools is fun!

[@Mylittleworkshop]

Wow, fantastic result!

[@357magdad]

Thanks! I have it hanging in my workshop - just checked it today it is still free of decomposition.

[@chiplane3976]

Great ideas and presentation. Learned some new tricks. Thanks!

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching and subscribing!

[@WrenB111]

Wow! Looks great!!!

[@357magdad]

Thanks! And thanks for watching!

[@williammcguire3rd]

That turned out great!!!

[@357magdad]

Thanks! I'm keeping an eye on it to see if it starts to decompose again.

[@theropesofrenovation9352]

"That vomit smell" Yep. Stinks really bad. Great job!!!

[@357magdad]

I've had some limited success trapping the smell under a clear coat.

[@29lookingood]

Great job, it looks good

[@bradwilliams7145]

Thank you for your time, effort and posting of the video. I have more than enough of these Craftsman stinky drivers. When I open my screwdriver drawer, the smell could knock a buzzard of a crap wagon. I went as far as spraying them with cheap cologne. (Doesn't work) I am now a subscriber and look forward to watching both your old and your new videos. Keep up the good work, thanks again and safety first.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for subscribing Brad! Wood handle screwdrivers don't smell bad and look better! LOL

[@frankg3072]

I did the same as MarkH. Scout crafter said to give you a look, I liked what I saw , subscribed and hit the notifications bell. Great restoration!

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching and subscribing! ScoutCrafter is the man!

[@knottreel]

I restored a set of Xcelite nut drivers. I soaked them in half hot water and bleach for one hour. it made the handles clear again and even made the metal shine more. It also removed all traces of the smell.

[@357magdad]

Interesting idea!

[@carlosdanger1843]

Wow! Great job, sir!

[@357magdad]

Thanks!

[@Rolexor]

I have been here for at least a year, and I can’t believe you don’t have more subs. I love your content and hope you keep on putting it out.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for hanging with me! I try to make a video every week - make sure you tell your friends and neighbors!

[@rawbacon]

I have over 3 dozen screwdrivers with the "acetate style" handles (Mostly Craftsman) and none smell, I always store them in racks, maybe being constantly aired out keeps them from decomposing........Seems like the smelly ones are always stored in a drawer or toolbox. I'll look for some "Stinkers" next time I go to the thrift shop, I'd like to try a few experiments, one being try to "Re-Cure" the plastic by placing it in an oven or dehydrator on low heat for a couple hours....Another idea would be place it in front of a UV Lamp for a few hours as another form of "Re-Curing" and of course the method you mentioned of clear coating to seal them.

[@357magdad]

I'm not sure what makes some turn smelly. I have this Craftsman hanging up in my shop and the decomposition has not returned, but the smell has never left!

[@sethallison5682]

I have a craftsman USA set that don’t smell that I bought in 2005. A couple years ago I replaced the missing and broken ones with the exact same style tools. Present day, those newer ones already smell! I notice that the non smelly ones say PR after the part number. The newer ones say WF. Different manufacturers. Avoid the western forge ones.

[@floydcrase625]

Looks great 👍

[@thefleaflop]

Hi,... Enjoied the video,... Thanks. I had the same issue, with the exact same tool, oddley enough! I used a wire wheel then buffing compound..... But both of us could have returned it to the store. These tools come with a lifetime warranty.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! Check out my more recent Craftsman screwdriver project: kzbin.info/www/bejne/haOXp6djbZaMedk

[@mrbenmall]

That is just amazing. I think I've watched this video 5 times. What a transformation.

[@357magdad]

Thanks Ben! Somebody commented that I went through a lot of work for a cheap screwdriver!

[@mrbenmall]

I find it odd that someone who would choose to watch a tool restoration video would have that kind of response. There are a lot of strange people out there.

[@mrbenmall]

I'm rewatching this yet again for inspiration and learning because I'm currently working on that Craftsman screwdriver you gave me. :)

[@kerrygibbs8198]

I have a few craftsman screwdrivers and 2 other handles from another manufacturer. I also have to hex key cases.You’re right about the bad smell. I’m planning to work on my soon.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching Kerry! Check out my recent Craftsman screwdriver project: kzbin.info/www/bejne/haOXp6djbZaMedk

[@briansworkshop01]

Nice job my friend👍

[@357magdad]

Thank you!

[@timothynewkirk2654]

Dag Man, I'm Impressed! Newk from Kentucky

[@357magdad]

Thanks Newk! I have this hanging in my workshop - so far the decomposition has not returned.

[@oc_villain3833]

Good job , !!! Thanks for sharing.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! Its been about 4 months now and the handle still looks good!

[@not2fast4u2c]

Wow that did come out looking nice...Interesting to watch all the different things you tried..I gave up on a handle and sprayed it with shellac so it looks shiny but is still in rough shape

[@357magdad]

So far this handle has stayed clear. It still stinks though. Next one I get like this I want to try a clear coat to try to lock in the stink!

[@robertwilliams9318]

Great fit x!

[@joeheilm]

That turned out very nice. I burned a rut into a craftsman screwdriver with the buffer, it took 1/2 a second to ruin the handle, so I know what you mean when you say "lite touch". Anyway, great stuff thanks for sharing. Cheers. Oh and you and Scoutcrafter inspired me to get a Dremel, the only difference is mine is air powered. I'm looking forward to using it.

[@357magdad]

No hillbilly shop is complete without duct tape, WD-40 and a Dremel!

[@passengerswelcome1847]

Great job, turned out great!

[@357magdad]

Thank you and thanks for watching!

[@passengerswelcome1847]

@@357magdad very entertaining

[@floydcrase625]

Amazing you got the overspray off it

[@Anonymous-it5jw]

Really great job! Glad to learn what actually works to resurrect these plastic-handled tools. The smell comments reminded me that cheap Chinese eyeglass frames, particularly reading glasses & dark glasses, are made of the same kind of smelly plastic and, because they sit on your nose, you can't get away from the terrible odor that permeates your sinuses until you can get better glasses.

[@357magdad]

Thanks! I tried clear coating a handle on a recent project and it helped the smell some.

[@roberthammett6795]

I restored a few of these I bought on craigslist and the smell is definitely tough to deal with on them. Nice work

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! I've since tried clear coating the handles to lock in the smell with some success.

[@frankg3072]

That handle took a lot of perseverance and it came out really nice. Isn’t it something that one looks for answers on the internet and they don’t always help. Great job 👍

[@357magdad]

Thanks Frank! The internet can be a great resource, but sometimes you have to sort through the BS!

[@shawbros]

I've dealt with idiots on the internet that would stick their nose into something they shouldn't and give very poor to outright wrong recommendations to problems, and then would resort to complete lies (Ad hominem) when you tell them why the things they are telling you are incorrect.

[@TheDomanominus]

good work ... thanks for good tips

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching!

[@lisag2771]

Nice job

[@jamesholmes3499]

Love it! Thanks for sharing.

[@357magdad]

Thanks James!

[@jamesholmes3499]

@@357magdad To use acetone properly on 'plastics,' sand with fine grit and then wipe in one direction only with the acetone. It works great on cloudy headlamps. Thanks again for your videos and craftsmanship.

[@choppermike3329]

Excellent!

[@357magdad]

Thanks!

[@davidmelton7574]

Saw a guy working on a hot wheels car windshield he use mop and glow , it cleared up nicely. That screwdriver looks great nicely done

[@357magdad]

Yeah I watch the matchbox / hot wheels restoration channels. They seem to like the floor shine for the windshields.

[@garyjones7198]

@@357magdad we used Mop and glow on a cotton ball for our shoes in the military.. it was much faster than spit shining and held up better too... I might try this on the craftsman screwdriver handles...

[@moodyjeep]

Beautiful Job Mate. Baz. (uk).

[@357magdad]

Thank you and thanks for watching!

[@scroungasworkshop4663]

Yes I did enjoy watching this video, thanks for posting. If your videos are good enough for Scout Crafter then they are good enough for me. S&B - subbed & bell. Thanks Stuart 🇦🇺

[@357magdad]

ScoutCrafter is the man! Thanks for watching!

[@theropesofrenovation9352]

Had to come back and review. Having trouble with some handles on my screwdrivers. Didn't realize about sanding to 1000. Thanks,

[@357magdad]

Check out my more recent Craftsman handle project: kzbin.info/www/bejne/haOXp6djbZaMedk

[@theropesofrenovation9352]

@@357magdad That's the EXACT one I went to and it helped me a LOT

[@MrJruta]

Nice! Scout crafter sent me here. Subbed!

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching and subscribing! ScoutCrafter is THE MAN!

[@Schmitz3]

I just use a brass wire brush, removes that gunk and makes it look good again.

[@TrehanCreekOutdoors]

A great restoration job! Very nice. I'd like to share my experience with this type of CAB handled Craftsman screwdriver. About 45 years or so ago, my wife at the time purchased a very nice 26 inch portable Craftsman tool box which came with a very good set of about 250 pieces of various tools, including a set of these 1970's era screwdrivers with these handles. I have done absolutely NOTHING whatsoever over nearly a half century of time in the way of special care for these screwdrivers, beyond wiping off my tools after using them and simply storing them in the toolbox, usually kept in my garage. They are still translucent enough to easily see the shafts and all of the paint and lettering is still in pretty good shape. There is absolutely NO white chalky film from decomposition. There is a very faint characteristic odor if you hold the screwdriver close to your nose but honestly, you would not notice it normally. In short, there has been virtually not deterioration or odor developed over close to a half century of use. I've encountered tons of crappy, stinky screwdrivers like this in all sorts of other people's shops or garages. Why have mine held up so well? It's due largely, I believe, in taking the time to clean off tools after you use them and before you store them. Most people abuse their tools rather than use them properly and take care of them. I grew up without a lot of money or things so a good set of tools was something I highly valued and refused to mistreat. My advice is buy the best quality tools you can afford, never abuse them with improper use, and take good care of them. They will probably last you a lifetime. Mine have. I'm about to be 67 now and my tools are in better shape for their age than I am! LOL. Finally for those who might be interested, my screwdrivers have the tool number and the letters "WF" following the number. This signifies they were made by the Western Forge company at various USA locations for Sears. That company is still in business making good tools for a number of brand labels but they stopped doing business with Sears when it still had the Craftsman brand. Sears replaced them with an Asian supplier and, well, I think I'll just stop right here, other than saying I have never had a single one of any of my USA made Craftsman tools ever fail on me in any manner.

[@357magdad]

ScoutCrafter has mentioned that the "stinky" decomposed handles was due to a mistake in the plastic "formula" at the factory. I have that screwdriver hanging on my display wall and the decomposition has not returned - maybe there is something to the environment making the decomposition worse.

[@TrehanCreekOutdoors]

@@357magdad I watch Scoutcrafter's excellent videos too and don't like to disagree with him but in this case, for the sake of furtherance of knowledge among those interested in these type screwdrivers, I will disagree. First, let's be sure we all are clear on the theory being advanced, which is "a mistake in the plastic formula at the factory." Let's look at that premise and see if it holds water...which I will let the cat out of the bag and say it doesn't. It's an easily debunked theory. As I mentioned in my post, Craftsman screwdrivers with these handles were made for Sears by the Western Forge company. My screwdriver has the "WF" following the tool number to indicate this was the manufacturer. Most of these CAB handled screwdrivers were sold in the 1970's, as was mine. In the year 1976, the Western Forge company made its 1 millionth screwdriver. It's now made more than 1 billion screwdrivers. Does anyone REALLY think this company made a "mistake" in its formula 1 million times without knowing it? Exactly how long would a company making that many screwdrivers for decades keep making that "mistake?" It is mind boggling to swallow the idea this company just made a bad batch or two of screwdrivers and didn't catch the problem. They didn't just make a few cases of screwdrivers. They made millions of them! What really happened back then is that companies decided to use CAB plastic for their handles due to cost as well as some other characteristics of the plastic that were favorable, such as durability and resistance to solvents. They may not however have tested the durability of CAB plastic handles over a period of many decades time, such as 40 to 50 years and therefore they either didn't know the smell would be generated many years into the future once the deterioration set in OR...and quite possibly!....they knew but just didn't care. Most buyers wouldn't bother trying to get a lifetime warranty trade in for a screwdriver that lasted 40 to 50 years anyway and if they did, the cost of providing a replacement was minimal. Just how much does it cost to make a screwdriver on a production line anyway? I'd hazard a guess of merely a few cents. And, we don't really know that Western Forge had to replace any screwdrivers at its own cost. More than likely they simply sold the screwdrivers to Sears at a low price and without recourse. Sears then sold them for a much higher price and would assume any future cost of honoring Sear's warranty. Note that no one got a "Western Forge" warranty when they bought one of these tools. They got a Sears warranty, so Sears clearly was the one responsible for replacement of defective tools. So it is entirely feasible Western Forge may have known this material wasn't capable of lasting until the planet ceased to exist but really didn't have much liability and didn't care if the handle was going to become offensive after half a century of use. That would just be Sear's problem to deal with. But there's more. No matter if you want to still think Western Forge made millions of screwdrivers with a "mistake" in their formula., how then do you explain OTHER manufacturers installing the same CAB plastic handles on their screwdrivers only to have them deteriorate just the same way as Western Forge's products did? These same handles were made by the Weller company and sold on Xcellite screwdrivers. The same problem developed. Are we expected to believe the Weller company independently made the exact same formula "mistake" that the Western Forge company made? That's a lot of bull to be expected to swallow. Two completely independent competitor companies making the same "mistake" in their plastic formula at the same time? Nah, I am not buying that malarky! These two companies, and other companies, used CAB plastics in all sorts of ways. Whether any of them actually knew at the time that the material would become offensively odorous and deteriorate decades later...or cared if they did know....is something we just don't know for sure. I personally believe there were enough intelligent chemists on the Earth in those days to be able to determine that the CAB plastic would break down due to chemical reactions among the three major components over time. I believe the large chemical companies or research labs who reviewed the material for possible use did advise about the long term pitfalls of use of this product. I don't, however, have great faith in corporate ethics so I believe all of these companies that chose to put this plastic on their screwdrivers decided to use the material because it was cheap and would last "long enough." I'd say most of them flat didn't care to invest in a more stable, permanent tool handle material but decided immediate profits outweighed the concept of building a screwdriver that would last an eternity...or even just the buyer''s own lifetime. Does any of this matter? Well, it might if you bought the Craftsman screwdrivers expecting them to actually last your entire lifetime, as my wife did when purchasing my tools as a gift. Money was very hard to come by in rural Mississippi for a newly wed couple. She chose that brand and paid the price asked by Sears specifically because she honestly believed I would never need to pay to replace any of those tools, including stinky, crud encrusted screwdrivers with CAB handles! Now we are faced with a company who went bankrupt and doesn't exist to stand behind the lifetime warranty they took our money for. We are also faced with the manufacturer, Western Forge, who ended their contractual relationship with Sears, thus has no legal obligation to stand behind the product they made either. Just a question of my own here. If a company sells a lifetime warranty to the public on its products and prices the product to reflect that warranty but then declares bankruptcy, isn't the taking of money without delivering the goods or services promised a fraud? If it isn't, would you like to buy some tools with a lifetime warranty from me? I may want to go into that business! Why aren't there a bunch of Sears executives serving time in jail for failure to still support a lifetime warranty program? With the party who bought the Craftsman brand and the retailers now selling it, people report it is pretty much touch and go. Some have posted in forums on the internet that individual retailers who now sell Craftsman tools like Lowes, Ace Hardware, etc. decide on a case by case basis whether or not to honor the former lifetime warranty for a Sears customer who bought a Craftsman tool a half century ago. If it is honored at all, these people generally report not getting a free replacement tool of equal or better quality. Many report getting cheaply made, inferior quality products made in a foreign country to replace the much stronger and better USA made tools that they turn in. There are some excellent videos on Youbtube where the strength and other characteristics of early tools are compared with the Asian made ones now being sold. Everyone should watch these and see what the "bait and switch" scheme of offering inferior replacements for a better quality USA made tool is all about. I though bait and switch schemes were illegal too. Apparently now with Sears products. Sometimes a tool owner might get lucky and get a quality replacement tool; sometimes not. Heck of an end to a "lifetime warranty" proposition that hard working people who use tools to make their income now have to endure. Just my 2 cents; feel free to differ.

[@flashgordon6238]

@@TrehanCreekOutdoors Good insight and a great read! I'm glad I was able to start collecting tools growing up in the 1970's.

[@mtmchenry]

What a transformation, looks great. I'd try wiping it down with some clear shellac to get rid of the smell. Not sure how long it will last on plastic. I've made some burnt wood furniture and a few coates of shellac and you don't smell any the burnt wood. If you try it let me know how it works and lasts.

[@357magdad]

Thanks Mike! I may try the "candy coat" method as an experiment on the next smelly handle!

[@ralphmills7322]

I did similar maintenance on my 80's vintage craftsman 1/4" socket driver handle going white. I just used dish soap and water to clean and degrease the clear plastic handle. I then apply some Armor All Protectant to a clean rag, wipe it on the plastic handle and let dry. The metal shaft get wiped with a rag with a little 3-in-1 light machine oil before going back into the toolbox. This doesn't restore the tool as such, more of a preventative.

[@irishwristwatch2487]

Man, that thing turned out fantastic. Seems like the acetone took the worst of it off though. Even if it didn't clear completely, looks like it set a good base.

[@357magdad]

I don't know - that acetone really cut into the plastic. I had to do a lot of work with the sandpaper and file to re-square those edges. If I get another handle that is decomposed, but not as bad, I may try the acetone again.

[@michaelbradley8508]

Great restoration. A baking soda paste may have helped with the odour of the handle and then a clear coat. Michael

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! I'm keeping an eye on this handle to see if the decomposition returns. If I get another nasty handle, I'll try the baking soda trick!

[@1962vid]

Cool

[@norherman]

NICE job. For me I would have gone with a wood handle or turn a metal one. Use it and enjoy it.

[@shawbros]

You don't want to modify your Craftsmen tools, if you ever want to warranty them again.

[@garyjones2582]

357 it came out great.. I've had some of these Craftsman that did the same thing.. I could never figure out the cause of my toolbox smelling like that until I saw one of S.C rafters videos.. it smelled like a a dog took a dump in the middle of my box... I used to just wipe mine down with WD-40 and a rag.. it cleaned up pretty good but the next time I opened the box they were all funky again, and that dog was back ... I've never tried a clear lacquer spray.. I might try it one day and let u know how it works...Great video 357 M.D.

[@357magdad]

Thanks Gary! I've tried the clear spray on another project, it helped a little. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l57EkpZnq6ybY9E

[@ignaciohenao4110]

Interesting experience. Thanks for sharing. IMO still better without any music

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching!

[@rollerbald]

Very nice! Another new sub here thanks to a mention by ScoutCrafter.

[@357magdad]

Welcome to the channel! I hope you enjoy the content! ScoutCrafter is the man!!!

[@readysetsleep]

I just had a minor handle cleaning with a Chapman CMH-3. It was so white and hazy, luckily just a few paper towels was able to scrap off the old polish build up. It shines now eve thought I only used paper towels, but the ODOR is still there ... Was thinking of just throwing them the $6 for a new handle without odor lol

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! I've had some success clear coating the handles to lock in the odor. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l57EkpZnq6ybY9E

[@kenday7942]

I believe that’s actually mold that forms on screwdriver handles that are made of or have in their composition cellulose. It’s organic.

[@kenday7942]

Use acetone after you clean all the white stuff off. It will make the handle look better in smoother. It actually does dissolve the cellulose based plastic.

[@kenday7942]

The white powdery substance on screwdriver handles is a form of mold that grows on cellulose. TO PREVENT THE WHITE POWDER FROM FORMING IN THE FIRST PLACE: do not store the tools in a closed container. Allow them to have air and light on them periodically. The white powdery mold will form if you shut the tools away in the dark toolbox for a prolonged period of time. I learned this after I retired. I had my tools for 30 years and did not have that problem. Once I retired I left them shut up in the toolbox for a long time and when I opened the toolbox all that white powdery stuffstuff had formed. It will not form if you use or keep the tools out in the open. It also does not form on all handles - it depends on the composition - It forms on cellulose-based plastics. It formed on all my XCELITE handles.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! The handles are made of cellulose acetate butyrate. When exposed to excessive heat and moisture, the CAB can degrade into butyric acid, causing “the mange” and the rotten smell.

[@kenday7942]

Thank you for letting me know that. I had read somewhere it was an organic thing of mold or something but I think you’re probably correct. I get different answers depending on where I read. But I do know if left the tools shut in there for a long period the white powder would form - and when I would regularly use the tools it did NOT form. So not closing them up in the toolbox for a protracted period of time will keep that white powder whatever from forming. And it’s hard to get off of there! (And it does stink! It smells like vomit.)

[@RMoribayashi]

I though for sure when you mentioned the smell that this was going to be a video about handle replacement. I wish I could write something helpful other than "What are you better with, woodworking or casting acrylic?"

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! I'm better at woodworking. Check out my whittling knife from a file video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aaDbZn2cgZ6JZ7M

[@flashgordon6238]

There is a video on YT of guy that uses a vise and wire brush to clean the CAB (Cellulose Acetate butyrate) off the handle in 60 seconds..... Decades ago, Craftsman made a run of tri-lobed screwdrivers similar to the Professional Line handle shape but in clear with red and blue colors. I've been collecting them and use a baking soda solution saturated to the point where the baking soda no longer dissolves and is used as an abrasive. That helps to take out the odor. A wipe down with WD-40 seems to keep down the odor in the toolbox drawer and hopefully block oxygen, but it might accelerate the decomposition. For those that say to exchange it a Sears or Lowes: 1. Good luck finding a made in USA driver. 2. Sears is going out of business. 3. Western Forge stopped making screwdrivers for Sears in 2019. 4. Any new made in USA screwdrivers from Sears will use "globally sourced materials".

[@357magdad]

Thanks for the info Flash!

[@DeeegerD]

Perhaps a dremel and scotch bright discs?

[@357magdad]

I'll have to try that on the next handle!

[@oncewaslost1982]

I've done three of these this weekend. All I did was use a dull edge to carefully scrape over the whole handle until the white corrosion coating crap was gone. They all turned out pretty nice considering how awful they were to begin with.

[@357magdad]

I agree mechanically removing the decomposed "white stuff" is the best way to go!

[@packradtpackradt4581]

A fingernail is about the right hardness to remove the stuff without scratching it up.

[@VeradonaRestoration]

Nice !

[@357magdad]

Thank you!

[@edp9743]

I have had snap on screwdriver handles dry out and crack with age

[@357magdad]

That's why I'm a big fan of wood handle tools!

[@tonygarrett601]

X 14 to clean and wipe with an oily cloth to maintain

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching Tony!

[@sweetlou5902]

A dip or two in future floor polish, hang to dry may be the crowning touch you're seeking

[@357magdad]

I've seen the Hot Wheels and Matchbox restoration guys use that trick on the car windshields!

[@sweetlou5902]

@@357magdad I have found many uses for it. It's a wonder liquid... ha ha ha

[@Mekratrig]

Just from curjosity, is the handle stabilized so it won’t deteriorate again?

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! I have this screwdriver hanging on my project wall. It still looks good, but still smells bad. I have experimented with clear coating the handles and it does help the smell some. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l57EkpZnq6ybY9E

[@davidwrinkle6903]

What type of paper do you use for wet sanding and where do you get it

[@357magdad]

The 3M wet/dry sand paper is really nice stuff. But I'm cheap so I buy the no-name paper on Amazon. It is not as good.

[@redmangas2012]

What's the blue color you used, i need some for my tools. Thanks for posting.

[@357magdad]

I used Testors gloss enamels. I mixed a little black into the dark blue. I have found that thinning the paint with Testors enamel thinner and applying 2-3 coats gives the best finish. Thanks for watching and subscribing!

[@redmangas2012]

357magdad thank you

[@tommyordoyne7461]

Try a brass bristle brush. How is the smell?

[@357magdad]

The smell is rough! I've gotten better at these over the years - check out my latest: kzbin.info/www/bejne/haOXp6djbZaMedk

[@rtz549]

Is the deterioration from the Acetate oxidizing?

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! The handles are made of cellulose acetate butyrate. When exposed to excessive heat and moisture, the CAB can degrade into butyric acid, causing “the mange” and the rotten smell.

[@patrickcahill1216]

Put screwdriver in finger and water let set and scrub with abrasive pad do this till clear when clear wash and wipe down with wd40 it works

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! I've cleaned up quite a few of these plastic tool handles now and wet sanding down to 2500 or 3000 grit followed by polishing with the white compound gives me the best results.

[@lenkoscianski1800]

I used a wire wheel on a grinder 4:17

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching Len! I would think a wire wheel would really dig into the plastic.

[@stunner55]

I had that "funky odor" last year permeate my tool box. There is no 100% sustainable fix for the odor. Luckily they were Craftsman. I took them to Lowes for a swap.

[@357magdad]

I've had some success clear coating the handles to lock in the odor.

[@WApnj]

I always start with scraping....

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! I've cleaned up several plastic handles since this one and I think my technique has improved: kzbin.info/www/bejne/haOXp6djbZaMedk

[@upsidedowndog1256]

Has it held up?

[@357magdad]

I have this screwdriver hanging in my shop. The decomposition has not returned, but it still smells bad!

[@upsidedowndog1256]

@@357magdad That is strange. I have quite a few old handles made of that stuff but have not had that occur. I would probably exchange it if it did. I got a new Chinese made Craftsman slotted screw driver a few months back, it's hard to tell a difference in use.

[@blakewaddell451]

I could never do this if it takes off the words from the handle.

[@357magdad]

You can't see the words anymore, but one whiff and you know its a vintage craftsman you have in your hand! LOL

[@googlesbitch]

The white mold formation is a buildup of mold similar looking to hard cheese that has been contaminated and gone bad. I suspect this mold is a byproduct of someone who has a specific bacteria (kyetococcus sedentarius) who handles the tool and unknowingly incubates the handle with their personal body bacteria. The handle is a naturally organic material (cellulose acetate butyrate) so the bacteria feeds off it and leaves a nasty fungus film which is difficult to scrub off. I have had many of these types of tool handles for decades and never seen any formation of film yet I know others who have purchased the same type of tool handles as mine and when I see them, they reek and have a nasty film on it.

[@357magdad]

Interesting theory Joe!

[@toddtrantel159]

I've wondered what that smell was for 35 years!!!

[@357magdad]

At least now you know it wasn't you! lol

[@johnwilson230]

I should of just took the handle off and made a wooden one. That's just me but nice job a the same buddy....

[@357magdad]

It was fun trying to bring the old handle back from "zombieland"!

[@alpine1600s]

Nothing like the smell of decomposing celluloid.🤣

[@357magdad]

Definitely not a candidate for a car air freshener!

[@ChickenLips412]

1:14 ***CAUTION: Nitrile gloves are NOT compatible with acetone.***

[@357magdad]

I find the ones I use hold up ok, but I don't soak them in it. They do not like paint stripper though.

[@adude7050]

Great vid great job. If you message me a ship too address I might have something that will help you next time. I have not used it on a screw driver but you can test it if you want.

[@357magdad]

Can you send me an email? [e-mail]

[@mjschaeffer2112]

Determination... I would have cut it off and replaced with wood

[@357magdad]

I like the wood handle idea! I really wanted to see if the plastic could be restored.

[@Tom123mike]

That 25 cent screwdriver is now worth 25 dollars if you calculate labor and materials.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! Come on, my time is worth more than that! That screwdriver is worth at least $27.50!

[@brianmaxey7568]

Butyrate acid leaching from those old plastic handles is what causes that smell, my Papaw old Craftsman screwdriver all smelled like that..

[@357magdad]

You're correct! The handles are made of cellulose acetate butyrate. When exposed to excessive heat and moisture, the CAB can degrade into butyric acid, causing “the mange” and the rotten smell.

[@gizzyguzzi]

Or a new set of 8 for 10 bucks here: www.harborfreight.com/merchandising-promotions/clearance/acetate-handle-screwdriver-set-8-pc-60809.html

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching and commenting! Finding old tools at yard sales and flea markets and cleaning them up is a fun hobby.

[@WApnj]

Strong detergent and a scrub brush should have been your first attempt.

[@357magdad]

Thanks for watching! Check out my plastic handle playlist! kzbin.info/aero/PL2LUCgmdqpXNHD-ihR36psrrT9M3JnX7B