If the residue is not affecting operation now, it might in the future as it
attracts further dirt and dust. Probably will not affect components in low
impedance circuits, but could in FET stages.
The real hazard is your smelling that stuff.
Usually, using isopropyl alcohol, (not rubbing alcohol), or tape recorder
cleaner containing freon with alcohol, (yes, there are non-contaminating
freons approved for cleaning), or freon-alcohol pads which can be bought from
electronic wholesale component dealers, you can wipe down the cabinet, chassis
and circuit boards of the smoke residue and tars.
Use disposable plastic gloves to protect your hands from the lossened tars,
and wear a mask or use a fan to blow clean air to you, and fumes away from
you. Use with adequate ventilation as they say.
Around components, a gentle touch is necessary. If you fear that, use
pressurized cans of the alcohol-freon solvent, and if necessary a soft bristle
brush to wipe the residue down off the tilted board. I use a trash can, and
hold the unit over the can to flush a board in this manner.
Be careful to not use a solvent that softens the plastics used in electronics
today!
73, Stuart K5KVH
--
FAQ on WWW: http://www.contesting.com/tentecfaq.htm
Submissions: tentec@contesting.com
Administrative requests: tentec-REQUEST@contesting.com
Problems: owner-tentec@contesting.com
Search: http://www.contesting.com/km9p/search.htm
|