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Restoring Switches

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mylesw

Jedi Hopeful
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Hello

I have a TR4 turn signal that is in very good condition except for the bakelite(?) end of the stalk (see picture). Because these are NLA (you can only get the ones with the black stalks) and because this is an original lucas switch as opposed to the made in china variety I would like to have a go at restoring it. Does anyone have experience restoring these or know how to do it?

Thanks

Myles
 

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Try 1000-2000 grit paper and shoe polish. I just used the polish, and live with the patina. If I drive the car enough, my fingers may wear it smooth.
 
If the cracks are not deep, I would do as Doug said, only I would build up a few coats of acrylic laquer. I redid two steering wheels, and used spray polyester to get a nice build up after repairing the cracks. The problem with my suggestions - spendy to do just that little area. There are steering wheel restorations shops. Maybe they could give you a good deal on doing just that little area.
 
Sand the flats using a small wooden block beneath a fine grit paper (320 should be plenty fine). Sand the curves using a strip of 320 using a pulling motion around the curves. Then clean it really well using soap and water. Let it dry overnight just to be sure that no water has been absorbed. The spray with Krylon plastic paint. It goes on really well and finishes like glass. I've done this before with great lasting results. Let it dry for a couple of days before touching it.
 
mylesw said:
...these are NLA (you can only get the ones with the black stalks)...
Click to expand...

Looks much nicer than mine which has had all the black worn off -- the underlying plastic is clear. At least it matches all the knobs which are also worn down to the clear plastic (expect for the windshield washer which appears to be solid black hard rubber probably sourced from a separate supplier).

I have used JBWeld to patch steering wheel cracks, adheres like stink and sands smooth, painting as noted with a paint made for plastics. Should work here, too.

As for the black stalks -- I got one of those for my OD switch and found the black was just an outer vinyl layer that could be peeled off. I planned to cover it with chrome stick-on (as suggested by Justin Wagner) but the underlying steel shaft was so shiny I just clear-coated it and it still looks fine years later.
 
I would suggest you use Epoxy glue with a tooth pick to spread it on, pushing it into the cracks, then removing as much as possible with the toothpick before it sets up. Sand with 320 grit to get the shape back then 800 to smooth it out. Paint with plastic paint and away you go. Be sure and tape the shaft before using the glue and a razor blade to cut it at the tape before pulling it off. Did the cracks on steering wheels this way and they turn out great.


Wayne
 
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