Motorcyclists' rubberized coat

[inimicus]

at the MAX finally found a kradmelder mantel that wasnt brittle and all cracked up - you know, the usual suspects with pieces falling on the ground even as you examined them!

question: since it's (mostly) supple but dirty, what's the best thing for cleaning? I hear about armor all, silicone spray after a water wash, and other solutions. since these old coats are vulcanized with cloth backing, I fear using something that actually CAUSES cracking or de-laminating or unfortunate smells.

by the way 2 buttons missing - I think standard tunic ones would work as replacements, nicht wahr?

all ideas welcome - esp. ones that were successful with a kr'mantel! many thanks, all.

(mod- copying this to the 'preservation forum)

[FESTUNGBREST]

Unless you are a specialist in conservation techniques, the best recommendation is to leave it alone. You have said that it is not falling apart as the usual encountered examples. So why take the risk of introducing a chemical reaction or a humidity factor that will throw it over the edge?...Surely the Vulcanized treatment is introducing a PH modification similar to the the reaction in acid based paper.
For dirt ridden garments a weak vaccum, at best but . Controled sunlight and UV environment.

[inimicus]

thanks for the good points! I've seen high-acid paper and it usually isn't pretty. on the coat
I tried a pad wth warm water and mild handsoap on a small area and it worked fine removing the surface mung. l'll keep eyes on next few days but expect no problems. cheers!