[R-390] front panel restoration

[Robert Nickels]

Cecil Acuff wrote:
> You have to go easy around the engravings.
>
I wouldn't use my bead blaster for just that reason, although I can't 
imagine it producing sufficient force to warp a 1/8" thick steel panel!  
I've always had good luck with chemical strippers but still end up 
sanding panels before painting.

I think Hank Arney will confirm that the professional surface treatment 
is called a "Timesaver".  This is actually the name of the company that 
makes the Timesaver machines, which are essentially very large belt 
sanders.  Running a panel through a Timesaver is roughly the same as 
running a piece of wood through a surface planer, only much less metal 
is removed.   With proper setup a very smooth, flat surface results, 
without damaging the engraving.  In fact, the machine leaves a "grain" 
that helps paint adhere, or in the case of aluminum, makes for an 
attractive finish when anodized (what most of us would call "brushed 
aluminum").

I've not done it with an R-390 panel (yet) but I have used a wood shop 
type belt sander for the same purpose.  For a less aggressive approach, 
a random orbital sander works really well and doesn't leave a "grainy" 
appearance.  Velcro-back sandpaper in different grits can take you from 
rough removal down to the finish you want.

73, Bob W9RAN