Questions about stripping with lye

[slickfranco]

Is there a big difference between lye/caustic soda and the caswell stripper?

How many times can I reuse the sripping solution?

thank you

[acidrain]

My opinion is; it's not worth the extra cost. Caswell's stripper is harsh. If you leave the parts in too long, they'll be pitted just like with lye. I always just go with whatever is cheap.
Currently I'm getting lye from Lowes... it's in the plumbing department.

[slickfranco]

I bought mine at ACE Hardware

How many times can I reuse the formula?

[acidrain]

Many many times... when it starts getting week, you can warm it a little, and it will strip really fast. I usually toss it when it's black and you can't see the parts anymore.

[slickfranco]

it has turned pitch black ever since I stripped the first couple of parts

its a 2gal mixture of lye:water

[ShuckersFan]

Many many times... when it starts getting week, you can warm it a little, and it will strip really fast. I usually toss it when it's black and you can't see the parts anymore.

How much lye are you using with 2 gallons of water? Do you test the pH to tell if it's still usable?

Thanks

[acidrain]

1 lb per three gallons is what I've been doing. It will create heat when mixed, so make sure it is not warmer than 70F before using.
No, I don't check the PH... just use it until it starts getting weak, then "clear" any stubborn drains with it.