[Geoff]

I finally had a chance to apply the toning lacquers again. I used Perfect Brown for the front and Extra Dark Walnut on the rest. Here are some photos:

[Image: http://antiqueradios.com/gallery/main.ph...alNumber=2]

[Image: http://antiqueradios.com/gallery/main.ph...alNumber=2]

One problem I have is on the top front edge. I had sprayed the entire cabinet with 2 clear gloss coats after applying the grain filler. I let the gloss coats dry for a couple of days. I then taped off the columns, top, and sides and sprayed the front. I used the blue 3M tape. When I removed the tape it actually pulled off some of the clear lacquer. In some areas the blue tape actually left some adhesive residue. This was easily removed with mineral spirits. I lightly sanded the areas where the lacquer pulled out with 320 and spot hit them with a coat of clear. Then I masked off the front with the green 3M tape and sprayed the sides and top. The green tape did not leave any residue when I removed it. Here are a couple of pictures of what I am talking about.

[Image: http://antiqueradios.com/gallery/main.ph...alNumber=2]

[Image: http://antiqueradios.com/gallery/main.ph...alNumber=2]

There is a glare in the first picture that makes the finish seem like it is flaking off on the front edge but it is fine. I’m not sure how to tackle these areas. The only thing I can think of is to keep building up these areas with clear until they are level again.

I also got a great big drip on the top when the nozzle sputtered.

[Image: http://antiqueradios.com/gallery/main.ph...alNumber=2]

I’m using the fan nozzle that Mohawk sells. The coverage is much better with these but I find you need to wipe the nozzle more often than the standard ones that originally come with the cans. The picture was taken right after the drip hit the cabinet. It has since leveled out by itself and looks better but is still noticeable. I plan on very lightly sanding this to feather it in and then I’ll hit the area with a light coat of toner.

When is the best time to apply the Philco decal? I was thinking about applying 3 coats of clear and then sanding prior to adding the decal. Seems like the area where the decal will go is a little too rough to apply right now and I don’t want to sand the toner without some clear coat on top of it.

- Geoff