Ampeg Tolex

[61pollmann]

I have a 1965 Ampeg B15 Portaflex amp in excellent original condition. It has the blue diamond tolex. The tolex is in very good condition in terms of tears or wear, but it seems to have dulled over the years. I'm looking for suggestions for cleaning it, as well as possibly putting something on it to make it look less dull. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks,

George

[okcrum]

Originally Posted by 61pollmann

I have a 1965 Ampeg B15 Portaflex amp in excellent original condition. It has the blue diamond tolex. The tolex is in very good condition in terms of tears or wear, but it seems to have dulled over the years. I'm looking for suggestions for cleaning it, as well as possibly putting something on it to make it look less dull. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks,

George

As a first shot I'd try window cleaner and a brush. If that works, you're good. If not, you might try a little bit of 409 or similar cleaner on the bottom or inside to see if it discolors the tolex. If not, that should clean it up with some brushing, and then clean the 409 residue off with the window cleaner. Wipe the areas you clean with a rag while wet; it sounds like there's years of gunk on the tolex and you want to remove it, not just push it around.

[pgbassman]

I've had luck with a product called "Back to Black". It's not a dye to be used exclusively on black tolex. It's a white cream that you should brush on with a soft brush, it' really does a great job. It won't fade or dry out the Tolex like amoral or similar products. As the label suggests "try it on a small unseen area first", maybe on the bottom of the cab. Good luck