Best cleaning solution for faceplates, knobs, switches, etc. on vintage scope?

[Electro Fan]

Just checking to see what is recommended for removing grit and grime from vintage gear without taking off finishes and lettering on metal and plastic faceplate parts?  Plain old mild soap and a damp soft cloth or something else?

[tautech]

Just a search in the forum for "restoration" should deliver all the info you need.
Here's a few to get you started:
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/tek-7603-scope-w-7a18-amp-7b53a-timebase-restoration/msg172135/#msg172135
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/beginners/old-test-gear-restoration-questions/msg86113/#msg86113
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/old-'scope-preventative-maintenance-and-restoration-ideas/msg90544/#msg90544

[4thDoctorWhoFan]

For metal & certain types of plastic, I highly recommend Simichrome Polish.  It's fantastic stuff that really cleans & shines without damaging the finish or lettering or at least it has not damaged any finish and lettering on equipment that I have used it on so far. 

For all plastics, I have to go with Novus #1 for normal cleaning or Novus #2 for a little more muscle.  Excellent products.

For example, I just restored a Sansui 1978 G-8000 receiver and the faceplate on this thing was filthy.  I tried numerous different products and Simichrome was the only thing that brought it back to life.  I also used Novus #1 to clean the glass & plastic parts.  Not much plastic on this beast as it is mostly aluminum. 

Here are some pictures, the first being a BEFORE & the 2nd picture is AFTER cleaning:  (the BEFORE picture does not really show the true filthiness of the faceplate:

[kwass]

For all plastics, I have to go with Novus #1 for normal cleaning or Novus #2 for a little more muscle.  Excellent products.

I'll second that!  Avoid Novus #3, it's way too abrasive.

[Stray Electron]

   Check your cleaning solution in an inconspicuous place first!  I took all the display lettering off of my first GRC DigiBridge just using water and a bit of soap!