Re-veneering a GT Dashboard

[Tim R]

This video shows how we removed and replaced the cracked and damaged veneer from a Sunbeam Alpine GT dashboard. There are many ways to do this, this is just a record of how we did it. We are not wood workers or veneer specialists and claim no expertise but this method worked well for us. The end result looks superb and if anything the pictures in the video don't do justice to the finished article.

 

[DanR]

Tim, Your dash looks to be like my '67 SV ST (Plastic). I have since replaced it with some old American Walnut cut about 50-60 years ago from my Brother-in-laws old home place . It was cured quite well and of beautiful grain and color.

My '65 SIV GT BW35 had veneered dash originally, but due to long years in the open before I came into its' possession, it was deteriorated and in need of replacement.

I especially liked your idea of using the wooden sticks!

Removal of what was left of the veneer was fairly easy, done carefully and with little sanding. The panel of wood that was left had 9 layers (very thin ones at that). The wooden dash is in remarkably good condition and has very little warpage. Next step is to obtain the sheeting.

I noticed your dash has the mounting tabs built into the back side. My Wooden GT Dash had metal tabs for fastening the vent levers and heat/defrost units. While disassembled I fabricated duplicate tabs and offer for sale for anyone needing them for their dash restoration.

 

[loose_electron]

Looks very nice - If I may suggest - Look into using a wood grained Formica instead of actual wood. That's what I did and was pleased with the result. Formica should take a lot of abuse for extended periods of time and the wood grain look alike still looks very nice.

 

[65beam]

Dan,
How about this one?

 

[Bill Eisinger]

What is the common approach to recreating the specific labels (wiper, lights, etc)? Decals?

 

[Tim R]

You can buy replica switch tags from the suppliers.

 

[Alpine 1789]

Someone here used to make press-on labels for wood dashes and sell them on eBay. I bought a set years ago, but haven't seen them in ages. Does any remember who it was? I am afraid I don't.

 

[DanR]

Morning Bill E, (you too Jim), I believe the Gent is/was tylerite3124.....

The ones (labels/tags) I bought 8 - 10 years ago were nice ones and still looking good.

 

[loose_electron]

https://www.ebay.ie/itm/Custom-Text...840184?hash=item3d389d5578:g:r8UAAOSwa~BYZ~4z

The above is what I used. Very nice quality, fast turnaround, low price. The vendor is a teenage girl out of Florida, and she's got herself a nice little niche business going on.