1969 cadillac deville grille

[1969cadillac]

hello ! - is there any simple way to take a 69 grille apart since it is all crimped over?

and what is the best way to clean the grille sections , as i guess it is anodised??

it is ok to clean and spray with varnish to stop further oxidation ( i am not in a salt area)

thanks, Murray Mules

[George D. Mukalian CLC # 10047]

Murray:
I took my time with WD-40. I lightly sprayed one square section, rubbed completely then dryed it immediately with a clean dry cloth.
This kept my grille looking brand new for a very long time.
It's very time consuming but it's worth it.

George

[Scot Minesinger]

I have a 1970 Cadillac and it is a similar grille.  Talked to a very talented guy who took apart his 1970 grille and greatly regretted it.  He got it back together, but it was difficult.  Best thing to do is clean thoroughly to the extent possible.  I have seen some grilles that look great with a very time consuming cleaning.  Unfortunately, there is no easy or good way, not that your way was going to be easy.

[Gene Beaird]

Very good info.  Our 1968 Calais spent some time in rural Alabama.  While it's hard to tell by looking at it, oddly, in photographs, you can see the southeast US red clay stain on almost all parts, including the grill.  Should that clean up with normal cleaning, or does some product work better over another to clean the 'red hue' off the grill and chrome parts?

Thanks.

[Eric DeVirgilis CLC# 8621]

I've had excellent results with #0000 or #000 steel wool for grill detailing.