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How to Clean Scripto Vu Lighters

Vintage Scripto lighters like the Scripto VU were made with a clear plastic fuel tank that held a photo, company logo or object that was seen through the body. A clean Scripto lighter shows the item clearly, but the plastic turns blurry or yellow from inferior fuel additives, and external stains and scuffing. Although Scripto hasn't been making the VU series for quite some time, these lighters are still in use as of 2011. The plastic stays clear to display the object within with cleaning and polishing products, or home cleaning remedies.

Things You'll Need

Slotted screwdriver
Tweezers
Rubber Gloves
Goggles
Bucket
Hydrogen peroxide
Oxygen laundry additive
Plastic cleaner/polish
Flannel cloth

Instructions

- 1
  Loosen the fuel fill screw on the bottom of the Scripto VU lighter with a slotted screwdriver and drain the fuel. Allow 10 minutes for the fuel remnants to evaporate. Remove the wick from the vintage Scripto lighter by pulling it up through the inside of the chimney with tweezers.
- 2
  Clean the Scripto lighter with a homemade plastic cleaning soaking solution. Put on goggles and rubber gloves. Pour 1 gallon of hydrogen peroxide into a bucket. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of oxygen laundry additive. Place the lighter into a small bowl and pour the mixture into the bowl until the fuel tank fills and the level covers the clear plastic outer body. Allow to soak for 2 to 6 hours.
- 3
  Clean a Scripto VU lighter with plastic cleaner/polish. (see Resources) Be certain the cleaner does not contain ammonia. Follow the directions on the label for cleaning and polishing procedures for the given product. Most require application with a cloth, and some suggest leaving the cleaner to set for a time before polishing off like car wax.
- 4
  Rinse the fuel tank with water after either cleaning process and dry thoroughly as soon as the plastic is clean and clear. Polish the fuel tank exterior and the chrome cap with a flannel cloth. Replace the wick on the clean Scripto lighter and refill the fuel tank.

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