[Ron Ramirez]

Today, I began by applying black lacquer to the top and bottom edges of the 38-14, and Extra Dark Walnut toner to the top and bottom edges of the 39-7.

The 38-14 received three coats of black; the 39-7 received two coats of Extra Dark Walnut to keep it from looking too much like paint.

After letting a couple hours pass, I then gave each cabinet three coats of clear lacquer. Then, after letting both dry for an hour, both cabinets were lightly wet sanded with 1000 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Following this, both cabinets were given two final coats of Deft semi-gloss clear.

Here's the results. First, a photo, with flash, of the 38-14 cabinet:

[Image: http://www.philcoradio.com/images/phorum/ARF/001.jpg]

The grille cloth and backing board is not attached to the cabinet. I just stuck it in here for the photo, to see how it would look. This is the original cloth, and since it is still in very good condition, I am going to reuse it.

Now, a photo (without flash) of the 38-14, with the chassis inside:

[Image: http://www.philcoradio.com/images/phorum/ARF/006.jpg]

And finally, a photo (again, without flash) of the 39-7, with the chassis stuck inside just for fun:

[Image: http://www.philcoradio.com/images/phorum/ARF/008.jpg]

Next step: Wait two weeks, then rub both cabinets out with polishing compound, followed by a coat of wax.

When the cabinets are rubbed out, waxed and everything reassembled, I will post "after" photos.

This has been a great learning experience, and I feel that I have taken my (rather poor) refinishing skills to the next level, which was my goal all along.

Thanks to everyone who replied both in this thread and via PM.