John writes earlier:
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Subject: Re: Electrical Connections/ Silicone Sprays/ Pipe cleaners

An auto body shop owner I knew said that random blasts of silicon
spray can cause "fish eye" defects in repainted areas 2 years after
it's applied.  I wouldn't spray my window gaskets with it, especially
on paint that'sdeglosses and may absorb it.

John
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I hadn't realized there was so much Silicone-a-phobia rampent in the world.
Must have something to do with that leaky breast implant deal.  Silicone
spray, silicone grease, and all the other silicone products I know and love
are truely the wonder substances of the twentieth century.  I'm not afraid of
them.  Neither is my Westfalia.

The deal John describes is true about trying to paint over silicone
contaminated paint.  It's a fisheye nightmare.  Of course just about every
modern car wax product and automatic car wash that dispensed "wax" contains
the dreaded silicone in some form. (thats what makes the rain dance on
RainDance)  Thats why real body shops use appropriate wax and grease removers
before painting and the good ones shoot on a coat of sealer just to be sure
these days.  I usually wipe down with some Dupont Prep-Sol before sanding and
painting anything myself.  Never have fisheye problems even on parts I've
personally blessed with silicone spray.  I only suffer fisheyes when, like the
body shop mentioned above, I'm too lazy to properly prep the surface ;^)

On a serious note about silicone spray technique, the skilled practitioner
will spray the silicone on a rag and wipe the rubber window gaskets minimizing
silicone on the paint anyway.   Hosing down one's Vanagon directly with the
spray out of the can is simply artless and crude.

Good luck,

Carl