Topic: 65 Radio Dial Clean-Up

[markb0729]

Has anybody cleaned up or restored the dial on a 65 AM radio (5TMZ)?  The dial on my radio is in great shape but the number call outs have yellowed a bit.  I was wondering if bleach would do the trick but I have my doubts. 

[petersixtfive]

Would recommend leaving it alone
The white wasn't a bright white to start with, more off white to cream
You risk altering the black finish or partially removing the some of the black if not careful
Check the globe
Polish the clear lens with car polish and put it back together
Good luck

[markb0729]

As-is the dial is in good shape.  As you said the dial is more of a cream color.  I thought the numbers on the dial were turning off-white from age.  I have a 66 AM radio where the numbers on the dial are nice and white.  Interesting.

[J_Speegle]

Ya I think I wouldn't touch them either unless you have a couple of nice ones to practice/test with

It wuld be a good time to polish the clear plastic dial cover though

[markb0729]

Done and done.  I won't mess with the dial.  I don't have any spare dials, so if I mess this one up, I'm out of luck.  The radio was already refurbished.   Servicing of the radio included a thorough cleaning and lubrication of moving parts, new capacitors, a new output transistor sil-pad insulator, light was replaced with the chrome and lens polished.  I took the radio apart to check the work that was done and all looks good.  I'll put it back together and install.  Got a good complete refurbished radio for $250.

[C6ZZGT]

Where did you get it from ?

[markb0729]

I actually got the radio on eBay.  This was a low priority item for me since I had a nice looking, 100% working original 66 radio installed but I always wanted a correct 65 radio for my 65 Fastback.  I had a good dialog with the seller.  The replaced electronics and repairs check out.  Tuning mechanism and push buttons were cleaned and lubed and work well.  Upon request, he replaced a non-OEM wire on the refurbished radio with the factory correct wire and connector.  My only grip is that the case was sanded with a light grit sand paper to clean it up.  Steel wool and mineral spirits would have been a better option.  Regardless I'm happy with the purchase.  Can't beat the price.  The seller is "65blkbkgt".

UPDATE:  Here's the link to the radio I bought

http://www.ebay.com/itm/252810033628?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

[C6ZZGT]

nice