: You mentioned cleaning the PVC with MEK - what is that? and, more importantly
: - where do you buy it?

Doug,

MEK works better than Acetone to remove the light film present on PVC . It
dulls the surface, and removes a little of the vinyl in the process.
This "etching" creates a stronger bond between the PVC (vinyl) and the vinyl
cement.

I have found that a kitchen paper towel works well for applying MEK.
Just wipe it on and allow to dry completely. If the surface still looks
glossy, apply again. Avoid "pooling" of the liquid as that can eat through
the vinyl. ( See attached pic)

Surface moisture is a by product of MEK, so be sure the surface dries
completely before applying vinyl cement. A heat gun is an excellent way to
speed up the drying process. If MEK is unavailable, as is the case in some
countries, acetone can be used, but it is less effective in my opinion. I
purchase MEK at Lowe's or Home Depot, and many other hardware stores.

MEK + P ( peroxide) is the catalyst for polyester resin.

See the Link below for additional information.

Regards,

Tom