[R-390] Front Panel Restoration ER Don Reaves

[Chuck Catledge]

Glenn,

Thank you very much for your comprehensive article in ER.  I'm in the
process of refinishing my first engraved panel and have it stripped down to
what I think is the golden-brown Alodine coating. The zinc chromate and
paint stripped just fine.  Before proceeding I would appreciate your (and
others who might care to respond) thoughts on a few questions I have:
1) Is necessary to sand off the Alodine(?) coating before priming with zinc
chromate?
2) Is Bondo (or equivalent) a good substitute for filling small dings or
deeper scratches vs. J-B Kwik?  It seems like it might be easier to sand and
feather into the panel.  I suspect Bondo might not be a good sub on the
panel edges where mechanical strength would be an asset.
3) One of the rack mounting holes is "enlarged".  I'm considering filling it
with Loctite epoxy putty, sanding flush and re-drilling the hole.  Is this a
workable solution?
4) Don, you call for shop towels for wiping off the smeared acrylic
lettering paint.  Are these cotton terry towels or paper or something else?

This is my first venture, so I really appreciate the great knowledge of this
group.  Thanks to all!
---
Chuck, AE4CW