Silver Cloud Dash Repair |
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A tale of two dashes! Considering the pedigree of these cars, it continues to amaze me the mistreatment and abuse the woodwork receives in the hands of unqualified restorers. Or perhaps this was a learning experience for a previous owner that wanted to do it himself. More likely, the dash was given to a furniture repair shop, that was in over its head. Paper veneer and bad glue. Concours restoration requires a knowledgeable and sympathetic hand to achieve the best result possible. Our experience over the past several years, puts us in a unique position to perform complex projects with superb results. Industrial adhesives, the proper techniques, and the desire for "perfection", are the necessary ingredients of this process. |
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The above three photos show another dash with a
not uncommon problem. All of the wood had been refinished a few months earlier by another restorer. A repair to the crack in the Bakelite had been made at that time. However, the crack reappeared and split the finish. This kind of damage requires more drastic surgery than merely putting glue in the split. The middle and right photos show the groove we cut and an insert glued in place. This supports both sides of the crack. A plate was applied to the under side as well. Next, a sub-veneer was glued over the repair to strengthen it and minimize any telegraphing. The top was veneered in book-matched French walnut. The ends were veneered and the top crossband replaced. Finally, a new molding strip was steam bent and attached. Only after the surgery can the cosmetics proceed. The lower photos show the completed job, with a close-up of the figured walnut. |
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