Guys, I thought this might be interesting for some of you. This isn't a restoration by any means, but seeing how difficult and expensive it can be having that rare part rechromed, I came up with this. Again, nothing fancy, but not that bad for a 10 min project that cost $0.01
maybe $0.02.....hahaha
Maybe something that some of you will be ok with in their driver quality cars.
Guenter
(https://up.picr.de/40648313xn.jpg)
(https://up.picr.de/40648315pn.jpg)
(https://up.picr.de/40648317pu.jpg)
thin heat insulation aluminium tape, rubbed into the ridges with a thick soft cotton cloth.
(https://up.picr.de/40648318qs.jpg)
(https://up.picr.de/40648319uy.jpg)
maybe the overlap of the stripes could even be improved on. the aluminium foil does shrink a little to the side because of rubbing it down in the grooves.
(https://up.picr.de/40648320wi.jpg)
(https://up.picr.de/40648321no.jpg)
I like that idea for situations where the cost of restoration is not justifiable and it is transferable to some other parts too. A tiny overlap at the center and working from center out would avoid a gap in the middle, if the tape is not wide enough to run horizontally. Or overlap it more and just cut with a new razor blade after it is rubbed into the grooves.
Never seen even one of those plates in all the cars I have had pass thru my hands, but if I do stumble across one now, I won't toss it..
Dang G...almost makes me want to delete my clock! LOL!!!
If any one decides to delete their clock so you can use this tip, I could use your "old" clock and the faceplate! lol
Günter
That's a good tip. It does brighten up a dull finish. I never thought of something like that
Jay
Looks good, Gunter. I had some project going on where I thought about using the chrome/brushed chrome tape sold for dressing up outside panels, dashs, consoles, whatever. Comes in 6 or 8 inch widths.
I also thought about trying the gold/silver leafing sold at hobby shops.
I did use the aluminum tape to repair an interior vinyl trim piece on my '57 where the leafing was flaking off (door panel). I guess it worked pretty well, I had forgotten I did it until your post got me trying to remember what I did with it.
ok, silver leaf on door panels, thats what i used, turned out great, and then i covered it with clear plastic,
Great job Gerry!!
and installed. Even the dash looks a little stunned by this jaw dropping trick.... :002: :003:
(https://up.picr.de/40656196mh.jpg)
(https://up.picr.de/40656197wl.jpg)
(https://up.picr.de/40656198vi.jpg)
looks great. Thanks for the installed pics........looks better in place.
UMM..... Mr. DJ, Just one question.
What's that thing above the ash tray with the black knobs and buttons? The shiny plate on the right looks nice.
Haha Jay... they call it the frogeyed music maker. And I am not going to delete it.... :002: :003: this wagon only came with a clock delete. ( or maybe the radio was a dealer installed option ).
it's an interesting detail, that the ripples on the radio delete plate are somewhat wider spaced than the radio face plate. Although both are factory 1957 plates.
Great
Question #2 what?s the levers on the left of the frogeyed music maker????
Looks good I will have to give it a try on mine.
haha... highest delete score easily ! :003: