Couple of questions

[mgerst1]

1. I read the thread on the stock head unit problems and I want to make sure I have made the right diagnosis; at night my buttons are not lit up on the head unit but the screen still shows, my console buttons all work it is just on the headunit they are not lit. I believe this to be the power ribbon going bad, if im wrong let me know before i just replace the head unit.

2. When welding, do you have to remove all paint from the surface and all around it? I want to have two bolts welded to the firewall so I have something to mount my vacuum block to.

3. how do I remove scratches and marks from unpolished aluminum? I have the medieval adp and it is scratched and everything from the bender when it was fabricated but i dont know how ot get rid of all the marks and scratches.

Any and all help is appreciated. Thanks.

[mgerst1]

any help at all?

[BOOSTR]

If you have access to a real buffer, you can resolve most problems in the polished aluminum with compound followed up with a polish. They do make products specifically for aluminum but you shouldn't need them. Basically you will not be able to fix it by hand or orbital. Won't hurt to try it however if you can't get a hold of a buffer.

Why don't you just drill the amount of mounting holes needed and screw or bolt the vac block versus welding? Welding mounting studs seems like a bit of overkill.

Last but not least, the ribbon cable is the problem with that unit. Save yourself the aggravation and just replace the unit. Its a flawed design.

[mgerst1]

ok that is what i thought when the lights stopped working. I never thought of just drilling holes, i assumed there was a rats nest of wires behind the firewall. that does seem easier. do you mean a buffer like you use for waxing the car? what type of applicator should be on the buffer?

[BOOSTR]

Definitely be cautious of where you drill but its pretty common to mount things along the firewall. Just don't go drilling for oil with your hole depth and you should be okay.

Yep a Milwaukee, Mikita, Black & Decker or what have you. And a wool pad or two (cut pad & polish pad).

[mgerst1]

great thanks alot

[BOOSTR]

No problem. Good luck with all three.