Vintage Synth Repair

Hi,

I am trying to help restore a few vintage synths and thought it may be a 
good idea for people to post their vintage synth restoration tips.  I've 
spotted some synth photos on the web with close ups which look gorgeous and 
I think they've been polished.  I don't even think they left the factory 
looking that good.

I'd like to know:

-how to make the wood panels look great.

There are a number of wood polishing / cleaning products for furniture.  
Will these be safe to apply to all vintage synth wood surfaces?  Any 
recommended ones / tips?

-how to make the metal panels look great.

There are metal polishes available, but is this a good idea?  Any 
recommended ones?  If not, what's the best way to make metal panels look 
nice?

-touch up paint for scratches on metal?

I thought Testors model paint and even car touchup paint might be good. Any 
recommendations of paint type or tips for application?

-rust removal?

I've used CLR (calcium, lime and rust remover) on hardware with good 
results, but it takes time and patience.  I apply it with a Qtip, let it sit 
for around 1/2 an hour and then rub the rust off with a soaked Qtip.  Then 
repeat.  I think removing the hardware would be better because you'd be able 
to sit it in the solution, but I think the label says to use it for only 2 
minutes.  I wonder why?  Does anyone use anything else which may yield 
better and faster results?

-tolex cleaning / polishing?

I've used a toothbrush and windex, along with a cloth, but I have never 
polished tolex.  Any tips?

Thanks!

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> -how to make the wood panels look great.

I've had great luck with lemon oil and orange oil; go with orange oil
since it doesn't contain mineral spirits.

> -how to make the metal panels look great.

This one is easy: a damp flannel or terry cloth will do with a little
windex or simple green for tough stains.

> -touch up paint for scratches on metal?

use fine grit sandpaper to feather the edges before painting.

> -rust removal?

If it's on screws or hardware, get new screws or hardware.  If it's on
the metal panels, sanding is your option.

> -tolex cleaning / polishing?

armor all products are great on tolex; so is simple green.
I also use simple green for cleaning cables that are sticky from beer
and sodas.