Grigg, sounds like they used a cheaper bulk version of an Armor All-like product. I've used AA for years and never found it to last forever. (Boy, wouldn't THAT be a benefit! I'd never have to re-treat!) I'd first see what Armor All recommends for removing it. AA used to make one version- a milky white fluid, water-based, that was used on plastics, rubber, and other non-metals. Over the years, they've broadened their line to be more like their competitors.
If you are wanting to try a mild off-the-shelf soap, use Joy liquid dishwashing detergent. It washes off clean without a residue. I know that Joy is used as a first wash on parts that are used around liquid oxygen. Clean isn't clean until it is LOx-clean. After the Joy washing, the metal parts are washed in freon. I'm not recommending this step, just trying to show that it is a progressive wash, starting with Joy and moving toward solvents. The Joy can't hurt your parts, is cheap, and really washes off well.
I read in a
Meguiars forum that there is a product called
39 that is supposed to be really good at removing AA. No warranty expressed or implied, your mileage may vary!
Good luck.
Bill
