Author Topic: Preserving an original vinyl dash pad  (Read 761 times)

Offline mtinkham

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Preserving an original vinyl dash pad
« on: January 11, 2024, 01:49:45 PM »
I am looking for suggestions for preserving an original dash pad. I just recently purchased one that had been stored away for decades and is still quite soft and pliable. Thank you.
1967 S-code Fastback, GT, 3-speed manual, Metuchen, Scheduled 04-21-1967 - Actual 04-25-1967

Offline stangfan

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Re: Preserving an original vinyl dash pad
« Reply #1 on: January 18, 2024, 03:15:32 PM »
My 68  has an original in it.  I use 303 Aerospace Protectant on it to keep it from drying out.  Works very well.
1968 GT/CS
2018 Premium GT Fastback

Offline lightwtjet

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Re: Preserving an original vinyl dash pad
« Reply #2 on: January 18, 2024, 11:30:02 PM »
I have an original dash pad. It was in the sun for about 5 years but garage kept the rest of the time. I cover it when in the sun now. Not sure if that is needed.
1968 CJ - Owner and paint original. Dec 67 build in Dearborn. One of 50 135 Cobra Jets. Ford engineering used it for 8 mos. to resolve problems in the 50 early car build. Ford by-passed the normal sign off to get cars to the Winternationals drag race.

Offline Bob Gaines

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Re: Preserving an original vinyl dash pad
« Reply #3 on: January 18, 2024, 11:57:38 PM »
I have an original dash pad. It was in the sun for about 5 years but garage kept the rest of the time. I cover it when in the sun now. Not sure if that is needed.
It couldn't hurt. ;)
Bob Gaines,Shelby enthusiast, Shelby collector , Shelby concours judge SAAC,MCA,Mid America Shelby

Offline 67350#1242

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Re: Preserving an original vinyl dash pad
« Reply #4 on: January 19, 2024, 10:22:33 AM »
Obviously, UV light and high temperatures are worst enemies.  A good UV protectant and protecting from extreme temperature best practice to keep it fresh.

67 Coupe SJ 11/16/66
67 GT350 SJ 2/01/67

Offline aaatp

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Re: Preserving an original vinyl dash pad
« Reply #5 on: January 19, 2024, 01:28:49 PM »
I use WD40 on mine, to replenish the oils in the vinyl, and keep it looking new. Still looks great after 58 years.

Offline mtinkham

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Re: Preserving an original vinyl dash pad
« Reply #6 on: January 22, 2024, 02:00:00 PM »
Thank you for all of the suggestions.
1967 S-code Fastback, GT, 3-speed manual, Metuchen, Scheduled 04-21-1967 - Actual 04-25-1967