Question Cleaning a Matcutter

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DAD

Grumbler in Training
Joined
Dec 7, 2010
Posts
5
Loc
New Brunswick,Canada
After 25 years in the business I decided to take a sabbatical in 2009. I am now ready to resume framing and cannot wait. One minor problem I am having is the cleaning of my 1995 Fletcher 2100. For many years I used a product specifically designed as a matcutter cleaner and another which was a matcutter lubricant, both of which,for the life of me, the brand name eludes me (a blue label and a red label spray can). None of the suppliers I deal with in Canada carry this. I suspect Larsen-Juhl does but I am loathe to purchase from them . I have searched the hardware stores, the specialty shops and even the Big W, but to no avail. I have all the supplies I need so it is not cost effective to order a similar product from United Manufacturers when that is all I need. Did I mention I was in Canada? The only thing that I can see that may do the job is WD-40 but am quite unsure whether I should use this product on my cherished friend. Any thoughts or advice would be welcomed for a stubborn, dyed-in-the-wool old framer.
 
Hi DAD,

I think the products that you are thinking of are: Easy Clean Mat Cutter Cleaner (red label) and Easy Glide Mat Cutter Lubrican (blue label). I purchased mine through National Art in Halifax, Nova Scotia. They are great to deal with and it wouldn't be too far for shipping to you in New Brunswick.

Welcome to the Grumble!!
 
For the cleaning you can use regular lighter fluid on a soft cloth. It will remove all manner of general grime. Do not use WD40 on your cutter, because it will leave an undesirable residue that will actually attract and hold more grime.
:cool: Rick

Welcome back to the trade. :thumbsup:
 
Acetone to rid the grid.

If cleaned thoroughly, you might find you need no lubricant.

:icon9:
 
I find that the lighter fluid has a bit of lubricating function, although I would thoroughly buff all parts with a tissue before reassembling the cutter. A little of that EasyGlide mat cutter lube and then another buffing is a good finish.
:cool: Rick
 
Clean the mat cutter with lighter fluid, getting into nooks and crannies with cotton swabs and small beveled matboard knock-outs. Wipe thoroughly with tissue then see if you can find a teflon spray lube. I still have a 30 year old can of Triflow that I bought when I was under Bob Hendrixson's tutelage. Wipe thoroughly again and you are good to go. Canadian Tire may have a teflon spray of some sort - it is also used for cleaning guns (LOL!).

Welcome to the Grumble and welcome back to the wonderful wacky world of framing!
 
Lighter fluid. I, personally wouldn't lube the thing at all,as it is advised against by the manufacturer. Just my experience others may, of course vary.I always keep it covered when not using it as well. L
 
I used a Fletcher 2100 for years and never used anything more sophisticated to clean it than a damp cloth. The nylon wheels don't need lubrication and may actually be damaged by anything with a petroleum base.

Just wipe it over, keep the machine and work-table covered when not in use and all should be well.
 
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