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MG TD TF 1500 - TF #1414 dash & center console paint project

While I am waiting for the tub to be processed for paint removal, chrome work, and instrument restoration, the project commences on MG TF number 1414 focusing on color matching the red dash and the gold enter console. The best surviving paint of the red dash was the center where it better protected from direct sunlight and the elements under the scuttle.

After the paint scan and comparing paint chips in different light conditions I think I was able to find a really close match that I am happy with. This red paint will be BASF single stage paint.

Frank Cronin

The center console was a bit challenging. The front flat part of my console was very faded. What we did do is try to match as close as possible to the surviving gold paint located under the octagon instrument bezel and the upper rounded part of the console.

The original gold paint on the right and the color chip on the left. The paint recipe was mixed with no flop to keep the fine flake more below the paint surface to subdue the glitter.

It will be interesting how the final product comes out. I will be sure to follow up.

Frank Cronin

Here is another photo comparing the rounded edge of the console and the same color chip. The paint will also be BASF single stage.

Frank Cronin

Below are a couple of pictures to examine how factory prepped the red dash and center console. Using fine grit sandpaper carefully and then gradually removing minimal layers of paint we were able to determine the Factory used white primer below the red base paint. A little painters trick used with the help of the white primer to help make TF red dash paint appear more brighter and brilliant and using fewer coats of paint to cover and finish the dash to stretch out as much paint supply they had on hand.

On the center console you can see the Factory used a butterscotch color type primer that closely resembles the final top coat of the bronze/beige/gold center console.

Frank Cronin

Center console.

Frank Cronin

Here is the color formula for the red.

Frank Cronin

Center console

Frank Cronin

This is the final result. Close enough!

When the gauges are back from Nissonger and the chrome trim is rechromed, I will follow up with another picture.

Frank

Frank Cronin

2

Frank Cronin

Looks beautiful Frank :-)
Dave
D Moore

I would love to do my dash... Mine was red as well, but it won't go back that color. I dream of a deep dark moss green color with a faux wood grain painted center panel. No concourse for me. My TF is not stock in any way, but I sure do enjoy driving the snot out of it! It definitely makes running errands more fun.

Alex
Alex Waugh

Hi Frank,

I tried to cheat and took my dash panel to a motor accessory super store with the hope of finding an aerosol (rattle can) from a current car that would be a match for the dash. I checked 32 different reds and even though some looked ok in the shop they didn't come close in natural day light. There is a paint supplier in Glasgow who will make up an aerosol to a formulation but I think he sells Glasurit products. Do you know if your BASF formulations are applicable to all paint manufactures.


Jan T

J Targosz

Jan,

I might be wrong but I think that Glasurit is owned by BASF. You might check it out. If they are the same, then they should be able to get you what you want. Mark
Mark Strang

Jan, I will contact the person at the paint store and ask. Stay tuned.

Frank
Frank Cronin

yes Glasurit is owned by BASF,
Rod Brayshaw

Thank you for sharing Frank. Your pics are also a good match with my unrestored dash.

Matthew.
M Magilton

This thread was discussed between 06/05/2014 and 23/05/2014

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