How to Refinish a Mazda RX-7 Dashboard
Dashboards often suffer from the punishment of the sun's heat and ultraviolet rays, which cause cracks and discoloration. This damage can be very unsightly, especially in a car such as the Mazda RX-7, whose dashboard's unique design is integral to the look of the interior. Restoring a damaged dashboard can be a simple task, as long as the damage is not too severe.
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Instructions
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Wash the entire dash with a clean, damp rag.
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Use a filler that works on vinyl to repair small cracks; many people recommend expanding foam filler used by construction crews. Large cracks may be too big to be repaired with filler, so you may need to have them restored by a professional.
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Allow the filler to set and harden.
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Sand down the filler material until it blends in well with the rest of the dashboard. Start with a coarse-grade sandpaper, such as P60, to remove the larger excess. Finish it off with a fine-grade sandpaper, such as P120, until the filler is flush with the rest of the dash.
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Use a vinyl paint to match the color of the filler with the rest of the dashboard. Vinyl paint can be purchased online or at a local arts or craftsmen supply store. Paint the entire dash if necessary.
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Allow the paint to dry.
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Use another clean, damp rag to wipe off the dashboard.
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Use a vinyl protector, such as Armor All, to shield your dashboard from the sun and other environmental hazards.
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Tips & Warnings
Using a vinyl protector regularly can help restore the look of a dashboard and preserve it for many years.
Make sure the cloth you use to wipe your dashboard is damp and not wet; a wet cloth can damage the delicate electronic material in your car's dash. Do all the sanding by hand; using a machine for a job this small will only damage your dashboard.
References
- Photo Credit by Dave 7
