To make the adjustable pedal installation cleaner, I found a pair of dash trim panels in a junkyard from a slightly newer car, but their paint was peeling. To make the wiring easier, I swapped the pedal switch from this panel with the defrost switch from the larger panel. Its paint was similarly damaged. I had the paint mixed by a local supplier.

Although the compound curve required some care, the aluminum woodgrain came off surprisingly easily, meaning I didn't need the masking tape.

After lightly wire-brushing to remove the loose paint from the texture, I washed it thoroughly with dish soap, a toothbrush, & hot water. When it dried, I shot several light coats of paint on from various angles.

It dried quickly, and I reassembled it within minutes. Although it seems brighter in these pics, the new paint is indistinguishable.

The wood wouldn't come off the larger panel without uncrimping a LOT of Aluminum, so I masked it.

Owner caption November 2008 · Photo 46 of 56