34 dash graining

P

Proartguy

Member
Does anyone know the actual method the factory used for the grain finish on ‘34 dash and moldings? It seems no two are alike.
 
They used a steel stencil to mask once the red base coat was applied hence there isn't a lot of variation in truly original '34 woodgraining.
 
Most of the restorations seem to have a high gloss finish, is that correct? It is hard to tell from the factory pictures in the ‘33-34 Restoration Guide.
 
A notch or two glossier than semi-gloss according to NOS examples of glove box doors, ash tray covers, and glove box radio face plates.
 
Proartguy said:
What is the best method to reproduce the original?
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In my opinion, the best method is to have a professional do this for you. I prefer Jonathan at Honest Charley's.
He has done numerous sets for me, every one perfection.
These moldings and instrument panels are such an important part of a restoration, a part that folks seem to zero in on, to do less than stellar work upon them.
I have seen many "home" jobs that are rather nice. I have NEVER seen a home job that compares to the level provided by Jonathan.
I suppose it's all about what is good enough for you.
I seek perfection in all of my restorations. That leaves me in perhaps the 1% club.
Bottom line, do what you'll be happy with.
 
Benny Estes(R I P) was THE guy when you wanted the best. His son in law wood grained the garnish moldings for my '40 Standard. They were perfect! Benny's equipment was sold to a guy in l think in either Fort Wayne or Fort Worth, Indiana. The difference between Benny's finished product and Grain -Technologies is night and day.
Tom
 
I am doing a preservation, rather than a restoration, so I did the window moldings myself.
 

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Remember the 'LOST' set, [32 3 window] that was shipped FROM Honest Charlie's, USPS never found it ! the "Honest Charlie's" label gives away the special contents. Newc
 
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Newc said:
Remember the 'LOST' set, [32 3 window] that was shipped from Honest Charlie's, USPS never found ! the label gives away the special contents. Newc
Click to expand...

Okay, that says nothing about Charley's and everything about the shipper.
I would never consider using the USPS for something so valuable.
 
Newc said:
Remember the 'LOST' set, [32 3 window] that was shipped from Honest Charlie's, USPS never found ! the label gives away the special contents. Newc
Click to expand...

Okay, that says nothing about Charley's and everything about the shipper.
I would never consider using the USPS for something so valuable.
When I'd shipped my dash for the '36 roadster, I had built a wooden crate that was reinforced within and insured the package for $2500 as I recall. UPS carried that both ways.
 
Dave Walters in the Chicago area did my 33 dash and garnish mouldings. I don’t believe anyone could have done better.
 
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