VPI cleaner clear tubes cracking

I would

Mine has never developed any cracking. I don't use alcohol-based solutions, nor do I add any to the VPI solution. VPI actually suggests that adding alcohol is OK (up to 25%, I think)! So, they don't see it as a problem, but it might be worth asking them.

While I have the floor: I use the VPI cleaning solution. Are there real merits to using a different one or a homebrew?

Hi CPD: regarding different record cleaning solutions: Record Research Labs Vinyl Wash was compared to a number of others (not by me, another member ran the test) the findings were that the RRL did not leave behind its' own sonic signature, compared to the others tested.

Thanks Bob. I'll search for that other (RRL) solution.

I think Albert may have been the one who conducted the test regarding RRL solutions, Bob. In any event, I have done the same, comparing the RRL solutions (Deep Cleaner and Super Vinyl Wash) to VPI, Disc Doctor, and two home brews for which I found recipes. The RRL products were the winners hands-down, at least for me using my VPI 16.5.