Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[KevF]

Guys

As mentioned in the Autoglym thread, I am currently working on a 1953 Porsche 365.

I am paint correcting at the moment but the client has asked if I can look at cleaning the interior.

Now this car is original and the tan cord seats and door cards are in need of a clean.
The colour has faded on some parts, on others it is just plain dirty. The rear seat base has what looks like 'woodworm' holes in some places.

The seat material, I would assume, is Horsehair so I am aware of needing to be ultra careful...

Does anyone know someone who would be able to help with this cleaning as I am not comfortable using my normal materials on this unique vehicle .

Many thanks

Kev

[62rebel]

if they're anything like VW or BMW seats then it is indeed rubberised horsehair in them, or at least what remains. every one of my BMW 2002's, all of my older VW's, and my 1972 and 1978 Mercedes had this stuff in them (at one time) and it deteriorates badly over time, usually decomposing into a mass of detritus beneath a sagging seat cover. i loathe the stuff. however, if you're restoring a Porsche, then the OEM stuff will be necessary if you wish to remain original. a good upholstery shop should be able to obtain it for you. the stuff is responsible for that uniquely "German" smell i associate with those cars.

[KevF]

Thanks for the reply.

The original horsehair is still in very good condition surprisingly but the corduroy cloth has some staining and water marking that the client wants removed....I am loathed to 'wash it' as he has instructed as he also wants to keep the patina just wants to ensure it is clean......

Am I being too cautious with regard the horsehair......How wet does it need to get before smelling and going bad..........I have tried spot cleaning with a soft bristle brush and cloths but it really needs a decent wet/dry vac but I am holding off on that if I can.
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[peter scott]

Hi Kev,

I've found that Vanish Carpet Cleaner is very effective and it certainly doesn't leave much moisture. No tide marks either.

Peter
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http://www.nostalgiatech.co.uk
1939 SS Jaguar 2 1/2 litre saloon

[KevF]

Thanks for that Peter.....I might give it a try....

Kev
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[Brookie]

This link is to number of suppliers and includes horsehair padding
Sorry it is a bit late

http://mercedesbenzw114swtroke8.myfanforum.org/about56.html