Crowder

1988 xlt lariat

Want to try and restore the dash and door panels. The truck sat for years out in the sun. So I'm sure that's the issue. But is there something I can use to help it out some? Without replacing it of course lol.

And what about the carpet.. it's original I'm sure, it's pretty bad, is it worth cleaning? Or should I just replace?

Thanks!

fltdriver

I pulled by seats (frame and all) and shampooed the carpet and the seats. Got almost all of my stains out just using regular Bissell 2x carpet shampoo, still have a couple tough ones that I plan to try actual stain remover on. As long as there aren't rips/tears cleaning is a good option. I have replaced auto carpet before and unless you are willing to pay a premium price you get a shoddy product.

I plan on trying cooking oil to help renew my dash. I saw somewhere that using olive oil helps bring back the original shine (I don't know about my truck smelling like a kitchen though) but haven't tried it yet so can't comment on how well it works. There are a lot of products out there that claim to do miracles but I have yet to see one that actually works.

I have seen people use plastic paint for vinyl and plastic parts, looks good if done right. They also make dash covers/carpets to cover any that are not saveable. When I did the carpets I also pulled my door panels, dash, kick panels, etc.., and scrubbed them with soapy water with a little simple green added to it. Worked great, especially for the dark oil residue from arms and hands on door panels and dash.