[VAC] Working w/Vulkem

[Rob Super <rms@xxxxxxxxxx>]

A little while ago there was some discussion here about how to smooth out 
Vulkem caulk and how to clean it up. FWIW, I've begun working with it 
some and have the following observations.

1) The instructions on the cartridges suggest "tool dry or with soapy 
water...." No matter how I try it, "dry" is a mess. Soapy water, on the 
other hand, does work pretty--well for smoothing: it does nothing for 
cleaning up the edges.

2) Paint thinner, Oil-Flow 141, and WD-40 will all smooth the bead *plus* 
they can help remove excess material and clean up the edges. I've been 
opting for WD-40 because it seems a little easier to use than the paint 
thinner and is a *lot* cheaper than the Oil-Flo. None of these, used 
judiciously, seem to affect the bond between the Vulkem and the 
aluminum--but that's obviously just a first impression, not the 
scientific results of a long term test.

It (the Vulkem) is really not easy stuff to work with; I'd be happy to 
hear from anyone who's found better methods.

Rob