[glyphmon]

Arran,

Thanks for the info.  I'd seen another thread where you suggested a wood dye would be about the only thing to penetrate this type of wood on the front, so I'm going to give that a try first.  While it won't match the original pattern of the grain, I think I'll try to replicate the overall pattern of the sections of faux veneer.

I've got some denatured alcohol on the way to make sure I clean up any remaining finish from the sides and top.  Is there anything else you could suggest for me to even up the long-time naked patches on the top that are now darker than the rest?  Should I do a very light sanding on it?

Any thoughts on a grain filler?  I've seen many restorers on Youtube apply some, but it seems to vary from a paste form to a liquid, to simply applying and sanding down multiple layers of lacquer or shellac - not sure exactly which.

And lastly, there's that dark stain near the bottom corner.  Is there something I should try to lighten that up and get it back to normal-ish color?  I see some people have used some bleach-like products to address water marks and similar damage.

Appreciate your guidance with this radio.

Best wishes,
Roy