I am new to this forum and have had an '88 Ford Country Squire for a couple years. The majority of my woodgrain is in EXCELLENT condition for the age and the paint is presentable. However, as is typical with this model, the lighter colored aluminum/faux wood strip around the edges of the car had completely deteriorated. The original vinyl sticker was peeling off, revealing the beige paint undercoat. For 2 years I have consulted body/paint shops, trim shops, and other specialists, all of whom offered little help or support. Thus began the undertaking of a massive DIY project. I was able to find a woodgrain vinyl that is VERY close (though not identical) to the original. I ordered it through Stripeman; here's the link: http://www.stripeman.com/trim-molding-cover-up-wood-grain-589/ I need FOUR of the 20" by 90" rolls, totaling around $600. The first step was to strip the old vinyl down to the beige undercoat. I removed all of the trim from the car and washed it with soap and water, peeling off any loose vinyl. I then used a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser to thoroughly clean the surface and finished by sanding and re-washing. It took over 13 hours to clean the 26 pieces of trim. Applying the new vinyl is EXTREMELY challenging (I found it nearly impossible.) I found an installer through Signs Now who did a wonderful job applying the new vinyl for $300. Once the vinyl was installed, I simply snapped each piece of trim carefully back onto the car. For $900, my Country Squire looks absolutely terrific! The first 2 pics are before, the 3rd is during, and the last 2 are after. Any questions, feel free to ask!
That looks super fine! I've never had a wagon with woodgrain but love the looks of most. I was convinced if I ever got one I'd buy a none wood wagon or just remove the old wood vinyl. Now I see it's possible for a decent price to have a new wood sided wagon. Not sure if you went to the WELCOME WAGON or I welcomed you......... WELCOMEfrom another future Ilinoizzian.
Thats a great Job... Yup i have an 85 Country Squire and have the same problem as you. I was thinking about doing the same this. Nice to know it worked for you. Steve
I want to make sure I'm understanding your post. Your $900 massive project was for the restoration of the surround rails only? The results certainly look excellent. My solution was to have my rails woodgrained using the process they used to use on dashboards in the '30s and '40s. Basically, they paint the rails the base beige color, then stencil on the woodgrain using a very large soft roller. This process can be used to replace the Di-Noc as well (very useful if your particular color/pattern is not reproduced).
How close is the color of stripeman to the original trim? And is it easy to remove the trim from the body? Thanks!!
88countrysquire, Can you please provide some description of your removal and reattachment of the wood trim pieces? I need to do the same thing and am concerned they will crack upon removal and/or not reattach appropriately. And advice is appreciated.
