Can I patch or repaint entire dash

[52Cadillac]

Ive an area about 3 in square on top of dash which is Burgandy in color that needs sanding repainting.
Can I sand, and feather edges, then repaint? Problem is no paint code for dash color. Was there a Burgandy wine type color in 52 that matched interior? Can a auto paint store match the color?
If I have to remove dash, which I may have to eventually, because it leaks around and under windshield. While exploring under dash it looks like a round type weatherstripping had fallen out on both ends, it leaks badly from around those areas when raining. Would the dash need to come out to repair this?

One thing leads to another. Then if that's the case I should take Kens advice in another thread, and install a new harness. Winter projects galore.
Thanks, Mike

[D.Yaros]

I would think a spot paint job would not come out looking to well?  If it is the top of the dash, you are likely to get better results by painting the entire surface.

Did not the dash come with a padded cover in 1952?

Most auto paint suppliers are able to scan the color and then match it.  At least that is what I have been told.

[52Cadillac]

Yep I'm thinking a no go also on the fancy touch up Dave. I would imagine dash needs to come out for a repaint.
No dash pad for 52 that I'm aware of.
Thanks, Mike

[Caddy Wizard]

Whole dash probably needs to be painted.  Drop off the glove box door with the paint supplier to allow them to mix a close match.  You could try to patch it in with that and see how it looks.  If not good, paint the whole dash.  But instead of removing it, try carefully masking everything but the dash and painting it in situ using a small HVLP gun (like for door jambs).  It should work fine.


Art

[Dave Ventresca]

1954 was the first year for padded dash with the x ception of 53 Eldorado. Dave

[52Cadillac]

Great idea Art. Ill remove her today to drop off. I've no experience with spray guns, but may give her a shot. Is it a two man job to remove the dash?
Thanks, Mike

[D.Yaros]

1954 was the first year for padded dash with the x ception of 53 Eldorado. Dave

Thank you!  'Tis why I am here, to learn. 

[LeRoy DeVol]

Removing the dash can be a big job. Painting the dash in the car is much easier. If you decide to take out the dash make sure you tag all the wires to the gauges so you will be able to reinstall with no problem. Make sure you disconnect the battery first. The water leak can only be fixed by removing the windshield and replacing the seal. If you want a very good job i would have it done. If you buy the paint they will probably charge you about $250.00.

Lee DeVol   

[52Cadillac]

Lee I would be more comphy doing it in place. Seems spraying in place may be good if you can match the paint. I've no paint codes, just an old half pint can with no codes. I'm gonna take Arts advice and remove glove door to try to get a good match at the paint store.
Lee can any windshield place remove windshield and stripping and replace. Will I need a seal  or will they have what's needed?
Thanks, Mike

[LeRoy DeVol]

Mike, All paint shops today can match your paint from a sample such as your glove box. They will only sell you 1 quart of paint, and if you want to paint yourself for a charge of $10.00 they will put the paint in a spray can. Your windshield seal will need to be purchased by you. I looked up your seal from Hemmings motor news, & came up with, Pat Walsh Restorations PH# 781-246-3266. I hope they are still in business & can help you.

Lee DeVol

[gary griffin]

Another reason to paint in place is the potential of scratching your new paint during re installation of the dashboard.

I am approaching time to reinstall my newly painted and wood grained dash in my 1942 and am real concerned about scratching it during re installation.  I will probably tape heavy paper to the painted areas and be very careful.

[52Cadillac]

Thank you Gentlemen, things are looking up then.

Ive Included pic of interior color. Was that Burgandy wine color a standard 52 interior color? If so what was it?

Thanks Lee, I will call em in am. Appreciate the look up. But damn about 250 for a qt of paint. As me dear Ol Mother would say, in for a Penney, in for a Pound. Yep born in London.

Pic 2 is the top of my pass and driver windows they are coated in a aluminum paint or something and chrome appears to underneath. How can I get this off without scratching chrome, and what is it?

Don't know why pics are posted upside down.
Thanks, Mike

[LeRoy DeVol]

Mike, I believe your window frames were chrome and due to some kind of damage someone painted them. If you want to take off the paint there is a paint stripper you can buy. There  is another possibility, many window frames were painted from the factory and they may have been chromed later. Aluminum paint is not a stock color. If your plan is to have them chromed you wont need to remove the paint. As a example my window frames were painted but i chose to chrome them. They look great but would not score well in a car show.

Lee DeVol