So I picked up a machine from the 1960’s that was absolutely filthy and it literally had caked on dirt. I used the old naphtha method and it did absolutely nothing in terms of cleaning. It has done wonders for me in the past. For the first time I used simple green on a barely damp microfiber cloth and I have to say it worked amazing. I know that there is a huge debate whether or not to use water based cleaners on playfields but if you wipe it off immediately it should be fine. Vid actually contradicts himself in his guide at one point and says to never use water based cleaners and then about ten pages later he actually mentions the use of simple green to remove dirt rather than grind it in using Novus. I’m converted.

Are you asking about ball trails in older unshopped machines that have been sitting a while? It’s highly unlikely that there is any wax on them. I just cleaned a 60’s EM playfield that was VERY dirty and had a pretty heavy ball trail. Naphtha and Novus did nothing for it however I gently used Mean Green and quickly wiped it away and it came right off. It seems to get off the really stubborn dirt. I know it’s water based but if you use very small amounts and wipe it away quickly it shouldn’t be an issue. Another pinsider suggested using DL mechanics hand cream which I haven’t tried yet

I’ll take some pictures when I get a chance to get down to my workspace and get some decent lighting setup for pictures.

You’re are asking the person here. I store it in my basement alongside several other volatile chemicals and paints. If my house goes up in flames that area of the house is going to be toasted.