Tool Crib

PreKote Eliminates Messy Paint-Prep Step

Pantheon Chemical's PreKote surface pretreatment is a one-step paint-preparation process that replaces traditional alodine chromate and acid-etch pretreatments. Taking materials and labor costs into account, PreKote saves 42 percent compared to traditional processes, according to Pantheon. "The U.S. Air Force Education and Training Command has mandated the use of PreKote for all aircraft," Pantheon stated. Savings realized by the Air Force include 30 to 45 percent savings in man-hours per aircraft for the F-16, T-1, T-37, and T38; $58,000 per year and 141,000 pounds of chromated waste saved or prevented; and the PreKote process uses one-third to one-half the water needed for traditional paint pretreatment. PreKote is applied twice, in a flood-type coating. The coating is scrubbed with a 180- to 240-grit aluminum-oxide pad to create a lather, then it is allowed to dwell for two minutes before the second flood coating is applied and scrubbed again. The aircraft is then rinsed with water and allowed to dry. Prior to painting, the treated surfaces can be wiped with a PreKote-moistened cloth to remove any contaminants. PreKote is available from Aviall (www.aviall.com). Pantheon Chemical, phone: 623-780-2296, www.pantheonchemical.com.

Celeste's Solution is Safe and Effective

After years of research and development, Celeste Industries has released its newest cleaning solution, the biodegradable 86000 Exterior Cleaner. The new cleaner has many features that offer flexibility in cleaning by replacing multiple fluids. The 86000 cleaner removes insect residue, grease, oil, and carbon and inhibits corrosion, according to Celeste. The material safety data sheet for the 86000 Exterior Cleaner lists insignificant hazard ratings and does not require the use of respiratory protection. The cleaner is water-soluble, has a "mild surfactant" odor, and contains no solvents. During field trials at Easton Aviation, flight operations director Bevia Patrick said that the 86000 Exterior Cleaner replaced two cleaners used previously and didn't leave any streaks on the airplanes. Celeste manufactures a variety of aviation chemicals, from interior and exterior cleaners to lavatory chemicals, hand sanitizers, and passenger pillows and blankets. Celeste Industries, www.celestecorp.com.

Drill Doctor Keeps Bits Sharp

There's nothing like a sharp tool when you need one. Drill bits are used often in aviation maintenance, but can be overlooked when it comes to sharpening. Sometimes to the point that new bits get purchased instead of the old ones sharpened, which isn't cost effective. The Drill Doctor has a reasonably priced solution for busy shops.

The Drill Doctor 300 (DD300) sharpens most types of drill bits from 3/32-inch to 1/2-inch diameter in about 60 seconds. It has a patented alignment system called E-Z align and a diamond sharpening wheel. Drill Doctor is capable of sharpening standard 118-degree point twist, highspeed steel, masonry, carbide, and TiN-coated bits. The box is made of a tool-grade, insulated, impact-resistant plastic casing and comes with a sixfoot power cord. The diamond sharpening wheel is user-replaceable.

For a limited time, the DD300 comes with a carrying bag, a 16-page set of plans called The Practical Garage Workshop, for making the most of the limited space you have in your garage or small shop, and a free how-to-use video, price $99.95. Or upgrade to the DD750 (shown above) for $197.95.

So gather up all those dull or broken drill bits that have been collecting in your toolbox or shop and start sharpening.