[TR] TR3 Shift knob restoration

[Bob Labuz]

Bill,

Is the TRF model a soft rubber knob like the original? The photos make 
it look like it is plastic or bakelite.

Bob

On 08/10/2012 03:33 PM, Wbeech wrote:
> Great restoration, or you could spend $20 at TRF(p/n 19045) and buy a new
> one/NFI.
>
> I didn't have an original to restore but I really like the small black
> rubber one as it is lower and the top my hand doesn't scrape the bottom of
> the dash as it did with the AMCO walnut knob.
>
> Bill
>
> Bill Beecher
> '58 TR3A TS/30766L "Tarbaby"
> '62 TR3B TCF/2549L " Aunt B"
> www.triumphowners.com/1566
> '68 Land Rover Series IIa 88" "The Beast"
> "If you think you have everything under control... You're driving too slow"
> M.Andretti
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: triumphs-bounces at autox.team.net
> [mailto:triumphs-bounces at autox.team.net] On Behalf Of Bob Labuz
> Sent: Friday, August 10, 2012 1:43 PM
> To: Triumphs List
> Subject: [TR] TR3 Shift knob restoration
>
> Hello,
>
> I have had an original TR3 shift knob that was cracked and showing its age.
> But I liked the feel of the narrow rubber knob than the after market wooden
> knobs.
>
> So I wanted to restore it to its original condition.
>
> I first tried coating it with clear silicone caulking but it soon started to
> peal and look worse than the original dried out knob.
>
> So I tried a product called Plasti Dip. It is used to coat tool handles for
> better grip.
>
> First I sanded the old knob to smooth it out. Then I cleaned it with lacquer
> thinner to remove all grease etc.
>
> Then I dipped it into the can of dip and then stood it up on a stick in a
> vise for 1 hour. Repeated for a final coat and I have to say it looks like
> brand new!
>
> Feels great in the hand as I am sure the original ones did way back when.
>
> A can of this dip was about 6.75 at Lowes.