C3 - Dyed/Painted Interior - HELP!

[Andrew Johnson]

I am buying a 1-owner 1971 Convertible. The car has had a frame on restoration and it is in very nice driver condition. However, the current owner changed the interior from black to red!!!

No, he didn't buy a new red interior!!! He bought new seat covers, seat belts, and carpet. Everything else was dyed/painted RED!!! It looks to be well done but as I can see it will crack and age. I HATE IT!!!

I know I can buy all new interior... but the stuff in the car is all-original and in absolutely perfect shape. No cracks, impressions, tears...

I want to save it if this is at all possible. I would appreciate suggestions, if any, regarding possible ways to get the red dye/paint off? Is there a chemical? How about some type of blasting?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

[Michael W.]

laquer thinner *NM*

[Wayne K.]

Re: C3 - Dyed/Painted Interior - HELP!

Andrew,

Laquer thinner will remove the red dye but I'm sure you will not be happy with the results as it will also attack the original finish on the panel. If it was properly done and looks nice you might be surprised as to how long it will last. Using a good vinyl protectant like 303 Aerospace protectant will help preserve the finish. If you really want to go back to the original color I would suggest dyeing it the correct color after following the dye mfg. proper surface prep. Laquer thinner can be wicked stuff on surfaces if not properly applied.

Wayne

[Jim K.]

[Richard D.]

Re: C3 - Dyed/Painted Interior - HELP!

Maybe you should consider reskinning the doors and dash panels if the cores are solid?

I would recover the seats, then go ahead and paint the smaller bits like the column cover, kick panel covers, etc.

Regards,

Rich

[Bob R.]

Re: C3 - Dyed/Painted Interior - HELP!

As previously stated lacquer thinner is very strong stuff. I would not use it on the vinyl. It could melt the surface and would most certainly dry out the vinyl. Anything strong enough to remove the stain would damage the vinyl. If the vinyl is in good condition I would follow the advice earlier and apply the correct color stain over the incorrect color. I think the results would be much better then any other solution except replacing the interior.