Catalin Radio Restoration and Repair Service
Our Catalin Radio Cosmetic Restoration and Repair Service
Brings Back the Original Luster, heightens the Display Quality and
Increases the value of Your Catalin Radio.
Cosmetic Restorations
Catalin Store Uses Top Quality Restoration products and Tools to Achieve the Best Results.
Click on logos below of some of the restoration products and tools we use.
Cosmetic Restoration Process
Disassembled, Cleaned and Inspected
When we receive a radio in our restoration shop, we completely disassemble the radio, bag & tag the parts, clean the cabinet (Inside and out) and/trim and inspect it for defects and missing Catalin parts and hardware. If any of these are discovered, we report this back to the customer.
Clean and Polish Chassis
Our restorations are strictly cosmetic. This is because almost a large majority of Catalin radio collectors only display their radios.We clean and polish the chassis deck and components. For a "Display Quality" result and to prevent future corrosion, we apply a layer of clear gloss top coat.
STAGE 1: "Cut" Catalin Cabinet and Trim
Cutting Catalin cabinets and trim require a great deal of skill and experience. For Catalin radios other than Butterscotch or Yellow colors, we use a progression of metal mesh abrasive disks (Abranet). The starting grit level is based on the level of oxidation and Catalin color. From the starting grit level, we progress with higher grit levels until the surface is ready to accept abrasive compounds.
Catalin Repairs
Catalin Store has many years of experience repairing Catalin cabinets and trim. This includes the repair of cracks, chips, nicks, hairline, etc... Before any repair is done, we evaluate the pictures sent by the customer to judge the level of seamlessness that can be achieved.
STAGE 2: "Cut" Catalin Cabinet and Trim
At Stage two of the "Cutting" process, we examine the look and feel of the cabinet and trim surfaces. Based on these factors we choice an abrasive compound grit level to start with. We use progressively higher abrasive compounds grits and foam pads unil the Catalin surfaces are ready for for the polishing compounds. These polishers are are applied in a progression until the Catalin surfaces are ready to be buffed and polished.
"Buffing & Polishing" Cabinet and Trim
We achieve a lasting, deep, high-gloss finish by buffing the Catalin surfaces with the use of a professional buffing machine and jewelers rouge. After a series of buffing steps, we apply a "Carnauba" sealer.
Reassembly and Photographed
The bagged parts, cabinet and trim are correctly reassembled.
We photograph the restored radio and send them to the customer. These photographs also service as documentation of the restored condition of the radio.
Packing and Return Shipping-
The completed radio is now ready to be packed. We take great care in this process so the radio will arrive safely at your home or office. We use a carton with the correct measurements based on the size of the restored radio and use plenty of packing material (Foam and/or Bubble wrap). The radio is secured in the carton, which is sealed and a shipping label is applied. Shipping insurance is required for the documented value of the radio.
Now Let's Get Started