Metropoulos Forum

Does tolex glue ever go bad?

Yes. When I was still doing my own tolex work, the jug (1 gallon size) had a six month shelf life AFTER it was opened.

I never got to the point where I had any leftover, so I can't verify that, but if they put that on the label for those who use it frequently (as I used to), I have to think they knew it's limitations.

Is there a general consensus on tolex glue ? Which glue should one buy for the best results ?

The glue I used to get from CE Distribution was water based contact cement IIRC.

I've been advised by my cab maker to use neoprene glue when retolexed a peavey valve king head ten years ago ( gosh time flies ^^) !
It stinks like hell the first weeks , but I gotta say it makes for a nuclear proof bond on wood surface !
Not even a corner slightly lifted after years of use under all kinds of temperatures and humidity !
Spread a THIN coat on both surfaces ( sanding the wood surface is even better ) , place it ( you won't have second chances so please have steady hands ) .... And you're golden !

Correction, I use a neoprene based, water borne adhesive. Link below.

https://www.cedist.com/products/grill_c ... ype%3DGlue

Brush-on adhesive ideal for applying tolex. Cleans up with soap and water. No nasty solvents required. Does not stretch or shrink the vinyl. Comes in quarts or gallons.

Specifications: Tolex Glue is a non-flammable, Neoprene based, water borne adhesive formulated to bond tolex and vinyl to wood and wood based substrates.
Min. use temp: 45°F

Thanks !

If you want to go with a brown contact adhesive I'm a big fan of the 'wayside adhesive' on UK ebay. Looks about the closest to the stuff Marshall were using back in the 60's. Brushable and is VERY strong when fully set. Downside is it is not for the impatient. It can take a whole day to tolex a 4x12 cab, maybe longer. You have to wait for the glue to fix each time you do a section, and it adds up. Go with the neoprene based stuff if you want to do the job quickly.