Maintaining the interior wood trim in a classic car can be a bit of a delicate process, because as the wood ages it will inevitably become fragile. However, with proper care and attention, a classic car's interior wood trim will remain in pristine condition years to come.
When it comes to interior woodwork, one particularly problematic area are the door cappings, which can be gradually damaged by windows being left partially open, allowing rain to seep in, and settling on the door capping . The varnished surfaces of the capping will eventually begin to deteriorate.
As the varnish starts to flake and crumble as water penetrates, the wood will begin to darken and bubble. Not a pleasant site for a classic car lover.
The first thing that has to be done to restore the cappings’ appearance is to remove the flaking varnishes, using either a scraper or good quality abrasive paper.
Next wet and dry paper should be used with 1000 or 1200 grade being the maximum.
For the final touch, rubbing gently with a core steel wool will provide a beautiful finish, before the new varnish is applied.
In all of the sanding stages, great care must be taken to overdo the sanding, as irreversible damage can be done.
Here are some steps you can take to maintain the wood trim in your classic car:
Dust and dirt can accumulate on the wood trim, so it's important to clean interiror wood trim regularly to prevent damage. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe down the wood, being careful not to saturate the wood with water.
If the wood is particularly dirty or sticky, you can use a mild cleaner to help remove the grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as these can damage the wood.
To keep the wood in good condition, use a conditioner specifically made for the procedure. The conditioner will help to nourish the wood and prevent it from drying out and cracking.
To help protect the wood from scratches and other damage, you can apply a coat of wax or a sealant. These products will create a barrier that will help to keep the wood looking great for years to come.
sun exposure and high temperature can damage the wood and fade the finish, it's best to keep your classic car parked in a shaded or covered area when not in use.
If the wood trim shows signs of damage like cracking, warping or rotting, repairs will be called for. Repairing wood trim can be a tricky process, and best left to a professional.
By following these steps, the wood trim in a classic car will be a scource of pride and joy for many more years to come.
