Newb w/uncomfortable questions

[Bruce C.]

Greetings. Newbie here with a '90 black convertible, high-option car with all but removable hardtop and low tire pressure sensors.

I've been working on this car more from a "thorough annual inspection" perspective than a restoration perspective. Having said that, however, I struggle with issues like the following:

a) How can you clean wires to make them look new without obliterating the identifying marks?

b) I there a burnishing tool to clean the contacts in plugs and receptacles?

c) How do you clean engine-bay plastics without making them fade or getting the residue like that which mineral spirits leaves behind?

d) I removed the stoneguards from the floors to do repairs and now I want to know what was the mastic material used between the two and can it or an equivalent be obtained today?

e) Is there someplace where one can be taught the "art of restoration"?

Thanks, in advance, for your thoughts and your time.

Bruce

[Jack H.]

Re: Newb w/uncomfortable questions

[quote=Bruce Chumley (45539);375149]Greetings. Newbie here with a '90 black convertible, high-option car with all but removable hardtop and low tire pressure sensors.

I've been working on this car more from a "thorough annual inspection" perspective than a restoration perspective. Having said that, however, I struggle with issues like the following:

a) How can you clean wires to make them look new without obliterating the identifying marks?

Spraying with WD-40 and wiping gently with clean shop towel does and excellent job!

b) I there a burnishing tool to clean the contacts in plugs and receptacles?

A small SS wire brush attachment for a Dremmel Tool works wonders in this area. But, the plating on typical electrical contact surfaces is THIN, so don't polish too aggressively! Plus, for connections that 'snap together' and can't be seen when hooked up, consider applying a coating of silicone grease to thwart further oxidation after your polish job...

c) How do you clean engine-bay plastics without making them fade or getting the residue like that which mineral spirits leaves behind?

Something non-aggressive like Simple Green does a good job of removing simple dirt/grease residue. Once cleaned, plastic surfaces will gleam like new with a spritz and wipe down using WD-40...

d) I removed the stoneguards from the floors to do repairs and now I want to know what was the mastic material used between the two and can it or an equivalent be obtained today?

Can't advise here...

e) Is there someplace where one can be taught the "art of restoration"?

It's something that you learn by doing and asking questions as you are. That's part of the restoration/preservation journey...enjoy the trip!

[Bruce C.]

Re: Newb w/uncomfortable questions

Great tips, Jack. Thanks a million.

[Gary C.]

Re: Newb w/uncomfortable questions

Bruce, one of my friends on his '84 hoses used ClearKote www.clearkote.com Hoses looked like brand new afterwards. Gary....

[Bruce C.]

Re: Newb w/uncomfortable questions

Thanks, Gary.

Their "Quick Gloss" is probably worth a try.

[Patrick H.]

Re: Newb w/uncomfortable questions

I've used Vinylex on tires and hoses, as well as Meguiars #40 Vinyl & Rubber Cleaner and Conditioner. Both have worked well without excessive gloss.

Patrick

[Wayne W.]

Re: Newb w/uncomfortable questions

[quote=Jack Humphrey (17100);375154]

Spraying with WD-40 and wiping gently with clean shop towel does and excellent job!

Caution. Painting anything after spraying WD-40 or any other Silicone products could be a nightmare. So do all of that stuff last.

[Terry M.]

Re: Newb w/uncomfortable questions

I like Aerospace 303 for tires and hoses and all other plastic and vinyl. It doesn't clean -- just protects and leaves a no to low gloss finish. Available from boat stores or on-line.

[Patrick H.]

Re: Newb w/uncomfortable questions

I like Aerospace 303 for tires and hoses and all other plastic and vinyl. It doesn't clean -- just protects and leaves a no to low gloss finish. Available from boat stores or on-line.

I use that on the black pieces on the outside of the 08, Vinylex on the inside.
About time for the pre-winter wash and detail....

Patrick

[Bruce C.]

Re: Newb w/uncomfortable questions

Originally Posted by Terry McManmon (3966)
I like Aerospace 303 for tires and hoses and all other plastic and vinyl. It doesn't clean -- just protects and leaves a no to low gloss finish. Available from boat stores or on-line.

"I use that on the black pieces on the outside of the 08, Vinylex on the inside." (Patrick Hulst)

That's an idea, too, Patrick as the 84-90 has the black belt line that needs dressing occasionally.

And yes, with a few year's worth of paint experience under my belt, I'm very silicon-conscious.

All good ideas - I'm grateful to you guys.