Re: ARM RESToration

Posted by Fish'n Jim On 2024/1/20 10:52:55

Plastics often have mineral fillers, like calcium carbonate, etc. and that might be what the white stuff is if the surface was oxidized, but can't tell from a pic. ie, sign of degradation likely. It might be advised to paint the plastic bases if they're not cosmetically good/preserve. There's special spray paints for plastics, may need a surface prep/adhesion coat.

I'd check the filler foam you select on a small section first so it doesn't soften or otherwise destroy the plastic. Could end up with goo. Shouldn't need filling, if they're sound.

I'm not sure where the deformation is from the pics and heating may not be advised as they were made in a mold and to heat them without could cause more distortion. It's also 70 years old so the plasticizers etc, may not be good and may crack, burn, etc. instead. You'd need a temperature controlled oven set to anneal the specific plastic and not just a heat gun which will ensure uneven heating.

Fabric backed vinyls come in different thicknesses, so need to make sure it's the right kind so it can be formed properly.