I think black would look good in those areas, better than it originally did. Did you mention a plan for the silver?

 

The silver goes on last, but I'm not sure the best way to do that. Many have used a pen, and that's probably the best way as a brush will have a varying depth.

I've thought about using a pad that the bezel is pushed down against, but I don't see that working as the outside bead curves and bends. And, the application needs to be even on all beads, so I don't think that works.

 

Have you ever bought and used one of those pens they sell to patch paint on cars? I bet that would work well. You shake them up(they have a little ball in side) and then you push down on the tip and it pumps some paint out into the felt tip.

It's pretty strong paint though, so it might soften your black paint underneath.

 

Yes, I have. And something like that would work. The tip of whatever has to be rather hard so it won't wrap around the bead. Having said that, it needs to conform just enough to get the top.

 

Has anyone thought of doing this with actual veneer? Would that work out or would it be too fragile/UV sensitive to make it worthwhile?

 

Would be a lot of work. The vinyl is easily cut on computer-controlled cutters, but the veneer wouldn't be as easily cut. Then you have to bend it to around the bends. And, put an adhesive on it.

 

I found some info on TipTop Signs site re installing and using 3M's DI-NOC vinyls. Good info, including the suggestion of a primer, the possiblity of clear-coating, some sample pics, etc.

 

Gary,
These guys did it already. This is their link. It is not ford, but the same idea.


VWVortex.com - VWvortex Beetle Convertible Project

 

I showed the 3M sample to my wife today, along with the original radio bezel. She really likes the 3M Rosewood.

And, here's the one Kyle found....

 

That dash including the top of the doors, is a smooth gloss.
i think the 3m looks really good, but wonder if dust accumulates in the grooves.

 

Maybe, but a wipe-down with a cleaner should work - although not Windex as they say it softens the adhesive.

My pictures showing the grain were taken up very close, and the grain is not nearly as visible to the eye as to the camera. I think the Rosewood is a good match and will give the dash some depth that the factory stuff lacks.

 

So the trim on the cluster bezel, dash vents, and the radio/hvac bezel was painted silver and not a chrome leaf?


I am curious on this cause I was basing off my '78 Mercury which had actual chrome leaf applied to the trim but if these trucks were just painted silver I can just repaint mine and not have to replace it. That was why I was really wanting to replace mine was the "chrome" was faded black and if its just silver paint I can fix that one Saturday.

 

Yup. And it wears off, as my pics show. You can do a search on how people have done it, but I think to get a constant-width line you'll have to have a fairly hard medium so serve as the "brush". Something that won't wrap around the bead any more with a bit more pressure.

 

I think when I did my Mercury I used Silver Chrome enamel model paint and a tooth pick to apply it. Lasted a while but the sun did a number on it.


I will do a little reading but I am thinking maybe some eastwood paint they got a chrome like paint that can be bought in a quart probably last pretty good. Or just use a silver sharpie.

 

Don't forget Dave's suggestion.