Has anyone had an issue with plastic tool shells chemically breaking down? I am asking this question, because it appears I have it on one of my cheap tools that is about 10 yrs old. I have plenty of plastic cased corded and cordless tools that are perfectly fine and have been for many, many years. I do have one that is breaking down chemically.
The tool in question is a Canadian Tire Mastercraft heat gun. I don't use it much, so it sits most of the time in a metal cabinet. I went to use it recently, and discovered that the handle was sticky. I thought I had accidentally transferred something from my hands or gloves to the tool. Upon inspection, the whole tool case was gummy on the surface. The front and back part are different plastic and don't have the same issue. I tried to wash it off using a soap and water solution to no avail. I could wipe the soft plastic off the surface if I used enough force. I suspect I could clean it off if I found the right cleaner as well. I left the tool to sit for a while to see what would happen, and it is getting worst as time goes by.
I am wondering if anyone else has experienced any plastic tools reacting like this? I only have 2 Mastercraft tools (the dark blue ones before they went with the new lighter blue), so I can't say if it is an issue with Mastercraft tools in general, or just that one tool.