Author Topic: Cleaning firewall pad  (Read 2495 times)

lreppond

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Cleaning firewall pad
« on: April 21, 2021, 18:31:32 »
I have the original firewall padding in my engine bay.  There are no rips nor disintegration.  It does however have a build up of dust and grime on its surface.  Any suggestions on the right way to clean it?  What cleaning products?  Brushes, sponge, microfiber cloths, etc? What I don’t want to do is inflict any damage to its surface since its original and apart from being dirty in great shape. 
~Len

1971 280 SL
576G red/251 Beige
4 speed manual
Family owned since new (father —> son)

Tycoon

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Re: Cleaning firewall pad
« Reply #1 on: April 22, 2021, 02:12:11 »
I have used WD-40 with great results. I too have an original pad!
B

DaveB

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Re: Cleaning firewall pad
« Reply #2 on: April 22, 2021, 02:46:42 »
You can't go wrong with dishwashing detergent, warm water and a soft brush (toothbrush even) then, when dry, a coat of rubber & vinyl treatment. I've found this one good. The packaging states 'extreme shine' but it's not that shiny, doesn't look overdone.
DaveB
'65 US 230sl 4-speed, DB190

Vander

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Re: Cleaning firewall pad
« Reply #3 on: April 22, 2021, 10:56:04 »
Pretty much what DaveB said. Make a wash bucket like you are doing the exterior of your car, except use Dawn dish soap. Use a nylon carpet brush in small circular motions, rinse and wipe dry with microfiber towels. I would let it dry completely for hours before using a conditioner to dress it.
1969 280SL

mnahon

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Re: Cleaning firewall pad
« Reply #4 on: April 23, 2021, 01:21:30 »
For the final polish, I use black wax leather shoe polish. It works well on the original  firewall pad which, by now, is a bit porous due to age and so accepts the polish well.
Meyer Nahon
Montreal, Canada
1968 MB 280SL Auto Euro LHD Silver
2021 Tesla Model 3

boterinse9

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Re: Cleaning firewall pad
« Reply #5 on: September 12, 2021, 22:55:16 »
I use Armorall works great ao any mtrl.
1970 280 SL Silver Automatic

1976 300D White

2012 C300 4matic
2004 chevy Silverado