How to restore a distributor cap

[John L.]

I spent a good part of the the day at a salvage yard today. I picked up a pretty good selection of parts that have been hard for me to find. One of the parts was a Delco Remy Patent Pending (no R) Distributor Cap. The contacts are in great shape both outside and inside. However the black bakelite is somewhat weathered and rough -- not real rough -- just not smooth. Is there a technique for bringing the finish back to somewhat smooth again. The color is also a little faded.

As always thanks for your input. I have learned so much from this forum. I really do use the information in practice on a regular basis. There is always something to do on these cars. It is greatly appreciated.

john lolli

[Duke W.]

Re: How to restore a distributor cap

I've found that Armorall will restore chalky black plastic. It's not a permanent fix (I don't know of any.), but should last a while under the shielding.

I always use Armorall mixed 50/50 with distilled water, and it might take two of three applications with a natural bristle paint brush to bring it to a uniform satin finish.

Duke

[Bill W.]

Re: How to restore a distributor cap

I have heard of people painting them .Bill

[Joe C.]

Re: How to restore a distributor cap

John:

The only way, is to carefully buff it using tripoli (brown) compound on a buffing wheel.

Joe

[John L.]

How about a rock tumbler like devise

Thanks all for the input. I was also wondering last night if a rock tumbler like device filled with fine sand would also work. The tumbler would have to spin fairly slow. The constant spinning coupled with the sand may remove the roughness.

Just a thought -- dont hurt yoursleves laughing.

john lolli

[Richard S.]

Re: How to restore a distributor cap

John, I was able to restore my cap...found at a local swap meet... old and very faded...by using fine steel wool and spray painting with high gloss black paint. It came out perfect. I blocked all the plug wire holes with wads of masking tape. Good luck.

[Christopher R.]

Re: How to restore a distributor cap

I've thought of doing that. But i could't figure out how to clean the electrical contacts. The 9 inside and the 9 outside the cap. How'd you do it?