Putrid mid-century Xcelite tool handles --

[goodfellow]

 The noxious PS-120 nut driver set and a fairly rare (in automotive circles) Bristol spline driver set. Both sets were my dad's and were used on HAM radio and power supply equipment. I stuck the Bristol set in the shed by mistake because I thought that it too was going to get noxious. After several years the driver doesn't gas off at all.









The SP-120 on the other hand is totally gross -- just opening up the case is overwhelming. To alleviate the problem for a while I douse the drivers with WD40 and that will keep them smelling right for a few months. This set is most likely a late 50's or very early 60's vintage -- It was in my dad's electronics box ever since I can remember. Even as a small boy I remember being grossed out by that distinctive smell. 







Doused with liberal amounts of WD40 and the smell is gone for a few months.



I will keep this set in the shed though -- it IS that noxious. 

[bonneyman]

Here's a nice set I sold last year. Smelled fine just couldn't use them.
I use Ballistol gun oil on my stinky handles. Works OK for a few months.

PS Just realized these were VACO.