Replacing the wood veneer dashboard and tunnel cover

[GregT]

I would like to replace the veneers on the dashboard and the tunnel in my 1976 MkII Stag Automatic - a few questions for the long termers:

Is this a DIY job that goes very smoothly or is it something better to get fitted by an expert?

How long should it take if a DIY job?

Any 'gotchas' it tempted to have a go myself?

Recommendations as to where to buy (either parts only and/or including fitting)?

Thanks!

Greg
In NW London

[richardthestag]

DIY Depending on your ability

No disrespect intended.

On mine I lifted the 45 year old varnish using a heat gun and scraper. then blocked the veneer back to flat and use a quality varnish to recoat.

Others will be along to advise on coatings

[APS]

I have not done this job on a Stag dashboard, but I have on classic Mercedes dash trim.

The heat gun method was considered risky by Mercedes forum members, either you might burn the wood or accidentally take a scrape out of it.
Acetone is their chosen method for removing the varnish. I have done this and on first go it seemed that acetone had no affect. But you have to soak the wood overnight in acetone, in a lid container. The varnish then just falls off. Let it dry and a light sanding is all that’s needed. I applied some dye to darken the wood and then I spray lacquered the trim with probably 6-8 coats. Then I went through wet sanding starting at about 800 and finishing on 3000 for a really glossy finish.

I have no idea if this method works on Stag dashboard wood as the materials and the quality of could be very different.

I would do a tester bit first before proceeding with any method.

[trunt]

I think the dash is made of veneered plywood I wonder if the ply glue would be affected by the acetone??

I managed to re veneer mine with paper backed wood veneer, glued on with a quality contact adhesive. The plywood was delaminating in areas especially the dial dashbut I managed to get some glue in there and glue it up again, 3 years and so far so good..

[APS]

I think the dash is made of veneered plywood I wonder if the ply glue would be affected by the acetone??
.

Thats a good point Terry. Hence my reason to try a tester piece first.