Hi, I was cleaning out my garage the other day when I happen to come across
the original finishing instruction booklet that came with the dash I
purchased from Vicky Brit a few years back, if you care to have this
booklet contact me off list and I be glad to mail it to you, maybe that will
give you additional information you could work from, having too much
information is not a bad thing.
: Tuesday, April 16, 2002 9:08 PM
Subject: Re: Wood Dashboard
> "Matt M." wrote:
> >
> > When I purchased my '74 TR6, it came with a brand-new
> > hardwood dashboard that hadn't even been removed from
> > the box. I am now getting close to installing the new
> > dash, and I am wondering if, and how to finish it. I
> > know that TR6's came stock with veneer dashes and
> > these had a varnish or laquer over them. The
> > instructions that came with my new hardwood dash say
> > to only oil and wax it periodically with no other
> > protectant. Does this sound right? A friend of mine
> >
>
> The choice is yours. How well an oil finish holds up
> depends on the wood, the finish, and how you use your
> car.
>
> The reaction to the finish also varies with the wood
> and the finish. Lacquer is a very clear finish and
> will leave the wood very close to "as is". Varnish
> will tend to darken the wood a bit.
>
> Tung oil, especial gloss, will hold up very well. It
> will darken the wood a bit. It is easy to apply but
> takes many coats (like lacquer) to build up enough
> to hold up to exposed use. I have used Formby's gloss
> on wood exposed to the weather with pretty good
> results. It is tough, but not as subtle as other
> tung oils that I prefer for inside furniture.
>
> If you don't park your car for long periods in direct
> sunlight on a regular basis, then I would go for an
> oil finish. If you don't want to worry about it then
> go for varnish.
>
> One nice feature of the oil finish is that you can
> touch it up easily, anytime you feel the urge.
>
> An advantage of both varnish and oil is that you
> can rub the finish in. A good lacquer finish must
> be sprayed. Not a problem if you are equipped and
> experienced.
>
> I am not sure I would wax it though.
>
> -grego
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