I have a pair of 1962 French Mle. 52/61 leather boots. They're really comfy, so, in addition to being part of the collection, I like to wear them to work or out and about once in a while. The leather is just fine with regular oiling, but, with use, the rubber is starting to show small cracks. What product can I use to repair the cracks and/or halt any further degradation of the rubber?
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If you had a chance to conduct a WAF site search on past posting regarding rubber items. You will find that there is nothing that can be done to stop or correct the problem of rubber that is breaking down. I have been in the conservation field for many years, and found that nothing will work in either the short term or long term.Originally posted by lew View Post -
That's what I thought. The search only confirmed that. However, would some sort of automotive treatment for tires or weatherstripping forestall some future degradation?
I wonder if someone makes custom boot soles...
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Some automotive shops products can actually break down both vinyl and rubber faster that left alone. Such products like armor all , vinyl renew, jet black tire, etc. They look ok for awhile but then break down and crack.Comment
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I've known that about Armor All, and have kept that away from vehicles. Is this an issue with most of the products out there, or is there something that manages to bypass this problem of further degradation?Originally posted by Paul R. View PostComment
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Rubber breaks down for various reasons. I have been in the industrial rubber business for over twenty years. As mentioned, there is no going back. UV light is one thing that attacks rubber. If your items are in sun or Florescent light they will eventually turn to dust. Heat also breaks it down. Unless the Smithsonian preservationists know of something that will preserve rubber I would not use any chemicals.Comment
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