Problem: How to remove permanent marker writing from a calculator surface (e.g. TI-8X series)?

abracadabra1

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Nov 18, 1999
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I recently sold my TI-89 through Ebay because my math teacher doesn't allow it. I purchased the calculator about 6 months ago and haven't used it since. However, I did write my name in permanent marker on three very visible areas of the calculator (front cover, inside cover, back of calculator). I just realized today that I need to get the marker writing removed before I ship the calculator. Any ideas on how to remove it?

I've already tried three different all purpose cleaners as well as isopropyl rubbing alcohol.

Thx fellas
 

abracadabra1

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Nov 18, 1999
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I figured paint thinner might work as well, but I wasn't quite sure. Has anyone actually tried this before (I doubt it, but could be possible)? Any other suggestions?

thx notfred
 

Zim Hosein

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Nov 27, 1999
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abracadabra1, have you tried that citrus stuff Goo Gone?
 

Zim Hosein

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abracadabra1, according to the bottle it removes stickers, grease, gum, tar, crayon and tape. While it doesn't say permanent marker, tar isn't easy to remove at all, so I would guess permanat maker should rub off at well. You can find the stuff in small clear bottles [8Fl. Oz.] at your local drug store and automotive stores. Hope this helps.
 

Eli

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Oct 9, 1999
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I would be concerned that paint thinner would melt the plastic. Goo gone might work, but it's kinda greasy.

Just use rubbing alcohol.. sheesh people. :D It will come right off, and it won't hurt the plastic.

 

LordMaul

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Nov 16, 2000
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<< I would be concerned that paint thinner would melt the plastic. Goo gone might work, but it's kinda greasy.

Just use rubbing alcohol.. sheesh people. :D It will come right off, and it won't hurt the plastic.
>>





<<

<< I've already tried three different all purpose cleaners as well as isopropyl rubbing alcohol >>

>>



Um....:)
 

Lvis

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Oct 10, 1999
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Acetone will remove it.... but will probably eat the plastic too. You might test it on a small area to find out. This would be the last thing you should try, but it will work.
 

Dragnov

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Apr 24, 2001
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I would think Paint Thinner would do it, but I would also think it would take of the black paint of a TI-89 along with it.
 

TimidOCer

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Aug 28, 2000
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My way is easier.

I have done this so I know it works.

Just use an eraser on it. It may take a little while not very long .. its very easy.

 

cthulhu

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Feb 19, 2000
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There are several different kinds of paint thinner(or solvent). I am surprised that the rubbing alcohol didn't work. Did you put some muscle into it? You could try mineral spirits - look in paint thinner section of hardware store. No matter what solvent you try, you should test a small patch on the back of the calculator. If the plastic starts to frost - turn white- then don't use it. Anything stronger than mineral spirits or rubbing alcohol will probably frost the plastic.

I am not sure about the different cleaners mentioned. You could try something like fantastic or 409 but I would bet that if the rubbing alcohol didn't work then they won't either.

I know that an eraser takes crayon off walls. I fell asleep while the wife was gone shopping and my 2 yr old "colored" our hallway walls. I've never used it for marker.

Oh, try wd40. They claim to be able to take all sort of things off. I would try a test patch first though. The smell might linger - hmmm.

Let us know what works. Would the buyer accept it with your name on it? Let him worry about getting it off.
 

BigJohnKC

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Aug 15, 2001
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I recently had to remove a layer of paint off something plastic, and I found this stuff in Hobby Lobby called Turpenoid - it's an odorless turpentine substitute. Worked very well, but it took some elbow grease to get it off. I'll bet it would work on permanent marker too. Good luck :)