Dash Pad Cleaning, Pat, et al; Options

[kconway]

I picked up a nice dash pad recently that has zero cracks but is pretty dirty. I'd hate to clean it up just to see it crack before my eyes. Any suggestions on cleaning/preserving techniques before I do damage?

Thanks,
Kev

[Pat Garvey]

I picked up a nice dash pad recently that has zero cracks but is pretty dirty. I'd hate to clean it up just to see it crack before my eyes. Any suggestions on cleaning/preserving techniques before I do damage?

Thanks,
Kev

Kev,

How about a pic of the starting point?

Whatever you do - do not use even the mildest of solvent on this thing!!!!!!
Never let even the wimpiest sovent-based fluid touch any of the interior pieces, as it will have some melting effect. As much as I love it, I wouldn't even let Simple Green near it.

Start of with a cleaning agent that is as close to pH neutral. I live household dishwashing liquid such as Ivory or Palmolive, diluted to a couple of drops per quart to start. See how several washings at the same strength will do. Don't soak the part - wipe it down with the solution, wipe off with a cloth soaked in clear water, dry & inspect. It will (from the sound of it) take several cleanings.

Once it's clean, then it's time to judge the motherload of protective agents that you will undoubtedly get from this group! We should discuss that later, after the pad is thoroughly cleaned.

Aside from the pic, we need to know whther this pad was recently removed, or has been sitting around off of a car. They can take on different charachteristics if they haven't ben bolted down for a while & you'll need to be careful re-installing it, lest you crack it. Remember, this part is ancient! Needs to be handled like your 95 year old grandmother until its installed.
Pat