What's a good way to preserve patina to keep it from getting out of hand?

 

Ive read in aircooled VW forums of them using Linseed oil.

type in "Linseed patina" in google, and youll get some info.


ps:There is also the method of clearing the entire vehicle....but it gives it a shiny appearance.

 

You cannot preserve "patina." By definition, patina is the look associated with the natural oxidizing process of metals. Any attempt to preserve the look by any artificial means (coatings, etc) would be to destroy the one thing you're looking to save. You wouldn't rub oil on or clearcoat over the Mona Lisa because the surface is cracking. It is what it is. Ever watch Antiques Roadshow on PBS? Do you see the heart attacks those guys have when someone brings in 300 year old furniture that's been refinished? Listen to the valuation differences between original and non-original finishes? I'm not saying our trucks will ever reach that kind of interest or value, but the idea is the same. If you want that look, you have to accept the cause of that look. That's my 2c.

 

I am going to try a product called everbrite on my hotrod. I too want to preserve the patina and from what I know about top coats, they will not hold up over bare metal. I begin by searching for products which are used for protecting outdoor exposed metal structures. I landed on this product. The rep I spoke to said they expect a 7 year life from their product before recoating. It won't peal or crack like an overcoat and is intended to go over bare metal, and is UV resistant. Since Mater won't be 100% exposed to the elements recoating every several years isn't so bad.
I will do the inside of the bed first before the wood goes in.

https://www.everbritecoatings.com/ca...f454b3f07015f1

 

I do nothing to my cars, I just dont drive them in the winter. Rain doesnt hurt, if they lasted 60+ years just sitting around I dont expect them to degrade from being driven a few thousand miles a year. I do keep them garaged.

 

That's pretty interesting. I use a product called sharkhide on my aluminum motorcycles. It works great. They also have a product for steel called metal protectant. Might be worth taking a look at as well. No experience with it on steel or "patina", just throwing it out there. My only experience with the product is on polished aluminum.Sharkhide

I have a few bikes I built in the 60's cafe racer style with hand formed aluminum tanks, fenders, and seat cowling. It sure works great for that. Might be worth trying on a weathered test piece.

 

What about just plain old car wax? Your body man will hate you but it will bead water.

 

My buddy just did a satin clear coat and it turned out really good. At least you can lean against his truck without getting a brown spot on your shirt

 

We did a flat clear on ours. It turned out ok. Sprayed it twice as the first was too flat. So you have to get the sheen just right on first attempt. I would use some practice pieces until you are happy with it. On the inside I used wax.





Everything that you cannot see has been POR sealed.

 

I like glossy paint, just my opinion. If you don't, scotch bright it and flat clear coat it.

 

Beautiful Cadillac

 

I've been watching mine for almost 7 years...... I dont see a charge. Just Enjoy your time with your project...

 

I'm leaving my COE natural. Not really worried about it, it will outlast me.....
Preserving or protecting "patina" seems like a contradiction. Either let it go or paint it nice.

 

Thank you!
Here is the next caddy, just dragged home last week.

 

Thanks for all the input guys, great suggestions. Primarily I want to preserve the names on the doors, as this company is still in business. The interior of this COE will be waxed and meticulously detailed.