Restoring GT350 Emblem

[GT350Lad]

Hi guys, I love using the cars original parts so asking if anyone has had success or tips restoring there original GT350 tail light panel emblem?

Or just use it as is with all its Patina?

Here are some pics of 6S1276 original emblem

Cheers

[GT350Lad]

Pic of back for interest

Looks original but heavy patina

[deathsled]

I'd keep the patina.

[jk66gt350]

I restored mine many years ago - used a sanding block with very fine sandpaper to restore the finish and then used a small artist brush with flat black model paint to paint the inside of the letters / numbers.  Looked like new again.

[greekz]

I restored mine many years ago - used a sanding block with very fine sandpaper to restore the finish and then used a small artist brush with flat black model paint to paint the inside of the letters / numbers.  Looked like new again.

That is what I did as well.  Very easy and well worth the effort.

[GT350Lad]

Thanks guys, both good ways. I am honestly liking the patina but Curious as to how well the fine grit sandpaper worked? Any pics before and after? I am keen to try
I think it touch up the black for sure. Just a standard flat black?

Cheers

[jk66gt350]

Standard flat black.  I think I used 220 grit, but not sure.  No pictures of the before and after but it does come up like new.  Just use fine grit, take your time and only sand back and forth lengthwise.   

[6s2055]

Instead of sandpaper, perhaps 000 or 0000 steel wool?

[jk66gt350]

Steel wool gets stuck in the letters / numbers, cannot be used so you get consistent pressure on the full surface and is not aggressive enough to clean up the years of grime etc.  Its aluminum.  You can't hurt it if you use fine sandpaper, a sanding block and go easy.

[Steve McDonald Formally known as Mcdonas]

Before and after

[Bob Gaines]

I suppose it also depends on your expectations. Some emblems are too far gone to bring back to show quality but may be good enough for a fun driver .

[GT350Lad]

Thanks Guy for all the replies. Much appreciated

Cheers

[pbf777]

     I would use a flat 'honing' or 'sharpening stone' for at least the initial surface reduction, stepping to finer grits, utilizing sandpaper, on a hard backing, only as the final process, if required, to acquire the finish desired.  The reasoning for this is that the stone will permit a faster and more even sum of stock removal this resulting in a more level surface and sharper, squarer edge definitions.   

     As this generally presenting more like a machine manufacturing execution rather than a hand one.   

     Scott.

[GT350Lad]

Ok great tips thanks Scott

[98SVT - was 06GT]

Put a sheet of wet/dry sandpaper on flat surface and sand straight in one direction. Keep flushed with clean water. If the pits are deep you can start with a coarse paper and work up to finer to get the original finish.
You can use a sanding block but it's easier to move the emblem on the sand paper. If you use steel wool or sandpaper without a block you risk rounding off the edges of the emblem/lettering and ending up with a wavy surface. Also the steel wool will leave little specks of steel embedded in the surface and they will rust. Sharpening stones are much finer than sandpaper and will not remove much material. They will need to have an ample amount of oil used to keep the soft material from clogging them and causing gouges in your surface.