Base case restoration

[43Echo695]

The Realistic TRC-490 I have has a scuffed and lightly scratched casing.

To re-finish this surface would make the radio look like new again.

Anyone have experience of this? I want to keep the same or similar finish.

Were these casings originally painted, or powder coated? Should I sand it back and prime with undercoat, as you would respraying a car panel? I hear sanding powder coat isn't a good idea.

I've seen other things painted with aerosol enamel paint, and it comes off in flakes on your hands!

If this is successful, I plan to do the same to a couple of other radios. The Navaho is the least valuable, and more easily replaced.

73's

 

[Lil'Yeshua]

For mobile radios you can buy replacement cases. Not sure yet about the TRC-490. If you can find a local business that does powder coating then you could see if they will do your cases. If so,then you would have to strip the cases of any coating. Powder coating involves 400 degree temps and adding an electric charge to the part to be powder coated.

 

[2RT307]

I've just always sanded with a Scotch-brite pad, then painted with a satin black Krylon or Rustoleum spray can. Seems to work fine. If you really get into restoration, Eastwood Eastwood - Auto Body Repair Tools | MIG Welder | TIG Welder | Plasma Cutter | Auto Body Supplies & Accessories has some really cool stuff so that you can do it yourself.

73,
RT307

 

[43Echo695]

OK, thanks, keep the ideas coming.

Have found a couple of local powder coaters, so will
see what they say, and if they can do small jobs.

73's