King Ranch Leather Topcoat Refinishing Kit K7.tc

King Ranch Leather Topcoat Refinishing Kit K7.tc by Leather Doctor degreases, preps, cleans, rinses, relaxes, softens, seals, and conditions leather efficiently.

Kit K7.tc is a comprehensive solution designed to restore and protect vegetable-tanned leather close to its original condition ensuring long-lasting care and preservation.

• Ford King Ranch leathers are distinct in their resemblance to vegetable-tanned saddle leathers, embodying a classic cowboy and Western aesthetic.
• However, unlike traditional saddle leathers that darken with sunlight, King Ranch leathers are susceptible to fading due to the aniline dyestuff’s exposure to UV light.
• Additionally, neglect can lead to common issues such as body oil, grease, and sweat stains that darken the leather’s appearance.
• Console surfaces and seats often develop stains and discoloration that require specialized stain removal solutions for effective treatment.

Proper restoration begins with mandatory degreasing to remove body oils, grease and sweat, followed by pH balancing to restore the leather’s natural integrity (pH 3-5).

• After this essential step, a general prep cleaning is conducted:
• Any remaining unidentified stains can be addressed using the 'How to Identify Leather Stains' method, which categorizes stains based on six key factors:
• Appearance, Odor, Color, Feel-of-Hand, and Buildup or Absorption.

If blotchiness or discoloration is present after drying, a Redox (oxidation-reduction) treatment is applied to even out inconsistencies before the hydration and fatliquoring process.

• These steps ensure optimal restoration before sealing the leather while maintaining the natural beauty of the grain.
• The final conditioning step enhances the leather’s softness and imparts a buttery feel with a rub-resistant protector for long-lasting durability and satisfaction.

Kit K7.tc concentrate products must be diluted with 1.6 quarts (1448g) of distilled water before use.

Leather Degreaser 2.2

Degreaser 2.2 is a professional-grade degreaser designed to remove body oil, grease, and sweat from leather surfaces, including headrests, armrests, collars, cuffs, handles, and steering wheels.

 Key Benefits:

✔ Formulated with a pH of 2.2, this water-based, leather-safe degreaser penetrates deep to lift embedded oils and grease while preventing dye bleeding.
✔ Unlike solvent-based products, it cleans effectively without drying out or damaging the leather.
✔ Degreaser 2.2 is suitable for all leather types, including Nubuck and suede, making it an essential solution for maintaining and restoring leather’s natural beauty and longevity.

  Leather Acidifier 2.0

Acidifier 2.0 is a pH 2.0 acidic rinse designed to control, neutralize, and restore leather’s natural pH balance. It prevents leather from denaturing, which can lead to bleeding, streaking, tackiness, and structural weakness due to alkaline overexposure.

 Key Benefits:

Protector B is a pH 3.2 non-stick, rub-resistant conditioner that enhances smooth leather’s durability while providing a soft, buttery feel. 

 Key Benefits:

✔ Increases Wet & Dry Rub Resistance – Reduces stretch, scuffing, and wear
✔ Enhances Durability – Creates a protective barrier against everyday friction
✔ Prevents Sticky Soiling – Keeps dirt and stains from embedding into the leather
✔ Resists Ink & Dye Transfer – Makes ballpoint ink and dye stains easier to remove
✔ Reduces Friction Noise – Creates a quieter, smoother touch
✔ Maintains Leather’s Breathability – Preserves natural softness and flexibility

 Leather Brush 1

Brush 1 is a detailing horsehair brush designed for gentle, scratch-free cleaning on all smooth leathers

 Features & Benefits:

✔ Soft Horsehair Bristles – Ensures safe cleaning without scratching or damaging leather surfaces
✔ Ergonomic Grooved Grip – Provides comfort and control for effortless detailing
✔ Sturdy & Durable Design – Built for long-term use in leather maintenance
✔ Ideal for Deep Pore Cleaning – Effectively loosens embedded dirt and grime without harming the finish

 Foam 2

Foam 2 is a 2-inch high-density polyfoam brush designed for durable, precise, and smooth application of leather care products. 

 Features & Benefits:

✔ High-Density Polyfoam – Resists tearing and shredding for long-lasting use
✔ Even Product Distribution – Ensures smooth, streak-free application
✔ Controlled Absorption – Holds and releases product efficiently for optimal coverage
✔ Versatile Use – Ideal for applying dyes, finishes, and conditioners on leather and suede

Towel 5

Towel 5 is a high-performance, lint-free paper towel designed to perform like cloth for efficient cleaning and drying without leaving residues 

 Features & Benefits:

✔ Lint-Free – Leaves no fibers or residues behind
✔ Highly Absorbent – Quickly absorbed suspended soiling
✔ Stretchable & Durable – Strong enough for repeated use without tearing
✔ Washable & Reusable – Can be rinsed and reused for multiple applications

Perfect ensuring a smooth and effective leather care process.

  Leather Eraser 4 

Eraser 4 is used on all leather, nubuck, and fine suede for dry and wet cleaning with better greasy and gummy soil traction.

   Leather Sandpaper 2000

Sand 2000 is a 2000 grit sandpaper recommended to remove refinishing streaks for in between coatings.

Instructions:

• Follow these step-by-step instructions for a seamless refinishing process and to ensure optimal results.
• By adhering to these guidelines, your aniline leather will retain its beauty, softness, and strength, offering years of lasting quality.

Step 1 - Degreasing:

1. Shake Degreaser 2.2 to form a gel before use.
2. Apply Degreaser 2.2 onto Foam 2, Brush 1, or Eraser 4 for better control, then apply it to the stained area.
3. Brush the degreaser over the surface and extract suspended soiling using a white absorbent towel, folding and changing sides until the towel shows clean.
4. The leather is now ready for an acidifying rinse.

  Step 2 - Acidifying Rinse

1. Mix Acidifier 2.0 concentrate at a 1:25 ratio with 218 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
2. Apply Acidifier 2.0 to rinse off residual Degreaser 2.2, then brush and extract with a towel until clean.
3. Leave Acidifier 2.0 on the leather for 3 to 30 minutes to neutralize alkaline exposure, preventing bleeding, browning, or tackiness issues.
4. Test for a healthy, squeaky-clean feel to confirm the leather is ready for further cleaning or other specialized treatments.

 Step 3 - Cleaning

1. Mix Cleaner 3.8 concentrate at a 1:64 ratio with 224 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
2. Apply Cleaner 3.8, brush gently, and extract with a towel, folding and changing sides until the towel shows clean. Follow up with rinsing.

 Step 4 - Rinsing

1. Mix Rinse 3.0 concentrate at a 1:80 ratio with 224 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
2. Apply Rinse 3.0, brush gently, and extract with a towel, folding and changing sides until the towel shows clean and the leather feels squeaky.
3. Proceed to hydration.

 Step 5 - Hydrating

1. Mix Hydrator 3.3 concentrate at a 1:25 ratio with 218 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
2. Apply Hydrator 3.3 with Brush 1, ensuring even distribution and absorption into the leather structure.
3. Once the leather appears evenly hydrated, perform staking, massaging, and flexing to restore its dimension.
4. The leather is now ready for fatliquoring.

 Step 6 - Fatliquoring

1. Mix Fatliquor 5.0 concentrate at a 1:5 ratio with 189 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
2. Apply Fatliquor 5.0, brush to distribute evenly, and allow absorption into the leather structure.
3. Reapply after each evaporation cycle until the leather takes no more.
4. Let it dry slowly, working any residue into the leather with Hydrator 3.3 until clear, then allow slow drying again.
5. Before the leather is almost dry, perform staking, massaging, or flexing to enhance softness.
6. Reduce any darkening by stretching the leather with a tablespoon or using Razor 60.
7. The leather is now ready for topcoat refinishing.

Step 7 - Redox Treatment

1. Veg Tan 2.8 concentrate 1: 3 is mixed with distilled water before use: (43g for 2oz, 170g for 8oz and 681g for 32oz).
2. Veg Tan 2.8 is applied for a darkening effect, extracted with a dry towel for an even appearance, and left to dry.
3. Treatment is recommended after fat liquoring on leathers with a high percentage of fat and oil content.
4. The treatment result is inspected when the leather is dry.
5. Surface residue is dry brushed or wiped off with Rinse 3.0 to end treatment.

Step 8 - Topcoating

1. Mix Gloss 76 concentrate at a 1:2 ratio with 152 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
2. For the first coat, apply Gloss 76 using a lint-free towel for even anchorage and coverage.
3. Additional coats can be applied using a foam brush, roller, varnishing brush, or airbrush for a professional finish.
4. Allow drying between coats and lightly sand the surface with Sand 2000 between applications to ensure smoothness.
5. Let the topcoat cure overnight for added strength.
6. Inspect the results before proceeding to conditioning.

 Step 9 - Conditioning

1. Mix Protector B concentrate at a 1:19 ratio with 215 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
2. Apply Protector B with a lint-free towel, spreading evenly.
3. Allow it to dry.

 People Also Ask:

1. What is Aniline Topcoat Refinishing?
2. What is Leather Wet Processing?
3. What is Leather Dry Processing?
4. How to Identify Leather Stains?
5. How to Use the King Ranch Leather Problem-Solving Matrix?

1. What is Aniline Topcoat Refinishing?

• Aniline topcoat refinishing is a process that restores the protective topcoat on aniline leather, addressing wear, damage, and stains.
• The preparation steps vary depending on the damage severity and the condition of the topcoat.
• In most cases, partial or complete removal of the existing topcoat is recommended to create a stronger foundation for a smooth and even finish.
• The process involves the following four steps:

Step 1 - Initial Degreasing and Acidification:

• Begin with Degreaser 2.2, followed by Acidifier 2.0, to remove grease, oil, and other contaminants.
• This step ensures the leather surface is clean and pH-balanced for subsequent refinishing.

Step 2 - Physical Damage Repair

• For physical damage, sanding is required to smooth the existing leather finishes.
• If stains have darkened the leather, the topcoat may need to be shaved off entirely using Razor 60, in combination with the Hydrator 3.3 and Fatliquor 5.0 system.
• This helps restore the leather’s natural suppleness and pH balance while preparing it for refinishing.

Step 3 - Resurfacing and Topcoat Refinishing

• Remove any remaining soiling to satisfaction, and address residual tackiness with Acidifier 2.0 to ensure the surface is pH-balanced. 
• Apply the topcoat using a lint-free folding towel, foam brush, or airbrush for even distribution.
• Allow the topcoat to dry between coats until the desired finish is achieved.

Step 4 - Final Conditioning

• Finish with an application of Protector B to reduce friction wear on the topcoat and minimize future soiling.
• This step imparts a soft buttery feel to the leather while extending its longevity.

   2. What is Leather Wet Processing?

• Leather wet processing is a continuous restoration system designed to rejuvenate leather while maintaining its softness, strength, and integrity.
• This process involves sequential specialized products to clean, condition, and restore the leather.
• The stages include:

Step 1 - Initial Degreasing and Acidifying:

• Begin with Degreaser 2.2, followed by Acidifier 2.0, to remove grease, oil, and other contaminants while balancing the leather's pH.

Step 2 - Cleaning and Rinsing:

• Use Cleaner 3.8 to emulsify and lift soiling, followed by Rinse 3.0 to remove residues and maintain the leather's pH integrity.

Step 3 - Hydrating and Fatliquoring:

• Apply Hydrator 3.3 to relax the leather, reduce tension, and prepare it for fatliquoring.
• Follow with Fatliquor 5.0 to replenish the leather's natural fat and oil content, restoring its softness, suppleness, and durability.

Step 4 - Final Hydration and Drying:

• After the fatliquoring stage, Hydrator 3.3 is used again to clean up any surface residue.
• Allow the leather to dry slowly and naturally.
• When nearly dry, gently stretch the leather to lighten up for maximum softness and strength.

By following this continuous wet processing method, leather can be effectively restored to its original pliability and appearance, ensuring long-lasting beauty and durability.

. 3. What is Leather Dry Processing?

• Leather dry processing is a restoration technique focused on refining and protecting the leather surface.
• This method ensures a smooth finish and enhanced durability. The process involves the following steps:

Step 1 - Surface Preparation:

• Stretch the leather using a tablespoon to reduce tension,lighten up, and refine the surface.
• Use Eraser 4 to remove residual soiling or imperfections.
• Optionally, shave wick-up surface residues using Razor 60 for a clean and smooth base.

Step 2 - Topcoat Application:

• Apply the first layer of Gloss 76 using a lint-free towel for even padding.
• Follow with a preferred application method such as a hand brush, roller brush, varnishing brush, or airbrush for professional results.
• Optionally, use Sand 2000 between coatings to achieve a smoother finish.
• Note: Avoid sanding the leather crust directly to prevent damage.

Step 3 - Final Conditioning:

• Complete the process by applying Protector B, which enhances the leather's resistance to wear and soiling.
• This final step imparts a soft, buttery feel while reducing friction and extending the life of the topcoat.

Following the leather dry processing method, you can achieve a refined, lighten, polished appearance with added protection for long-lasting results. 

 4. How to Identify Leather Stains?

Stain identification is crucial for effective treatment and is based on six key factors:
Appearance, Odor, Color, Feel-of-Hand, Location, and Buildup or Absorption.

 Appearance

• Observing how the stain looks can indicate whether it is a spill, rub-on, penetration, or surface deposit.
• Some stains may cause dye or finish damage, revealing changes in the leather’s color or texture.

 Odor

• Smelling the stain can help identify its source.
• Common odors include:
• Moldy (fungal growth)
• Smoke (fire or cigarette exposure)
• Putrid (decaying organic matter)
• Ammonia (urine contamination)

  Color

• Color provides a clue to the staining substance but can change over time due to oxidation.
• The leather’s natural color may also influence how the stain appears.

• Red stains: Could be from wine, blood, lipstick, nail polish, or beverages.
• Blood stains: Can oxidize and shift from red to tan, then to black.

 Feel-of-Hand

• Touching the stain helps determine its type:
• Sticky: Likely from candy, beverages, or sugary substances.
• Brittle and stiff: Could be nail polish, paint, or shellac.
• Greasy smear: Often caused by lipstick, oils, or butter.

  Location

• The stain’s location on the leather provides hints about its origin.
• Headrests & armrests: Usually stained by body oil, sweat, and grease.
• Seat cushions: Often show food or beverage spills.

 Buildup or Absorbed

• Stains can be surface-level (built-up) or deeply absorbed into the leather.
• Built-up stains (common on pigmented leather) include paint, food residue, and ink.
• Absorbed stains (common on nubuck, aniline, and unfinished leather) include wine, tea, and coffee.
• Combination stains: Some stains contain both absorbed and surface elements, such as lipstick, ink, and mustard.
• Protein-based stains: Examples include blood, dairy, and egg-based spills.
• Oil-based stains: Often come from grease, butter, and lotions.
• Colloidal stains: May require specialized treatments.

 Additional Considerations

• Sweat stains can chemically alter leather, causing tackiness (when dry) or sliminess (when wet).
• Dye stains may show up when wiping with a white towel—this indicates color crocking.
• Fatliquor leaching (spew) appears as a milky film and causes leather to become stiff and prone to cracking.

By carefully identifying stains, you can apply the appropriate Leather Doctor® solutions to restore leather to its original beauty. 

King Ranch Leather Problem-Solving Matrix

 How to Use the King Rnch Leather Problem-Solving Matrix?

The matrix categorizes common issues with aniline leather into five groups: Soil, Stain, Odor, Finish, and Structure (listed in the left column). Corresponding recommended products are displayed across the top row. Each number within the matrix indicates the steps required to address the problem holistically.

For example:
If a leather issue involves an unknown compound that combines soil, stain, and odor, follow the sequence across the matrix, combining necessary steps from each category.

The process should always conclude with:

1. Hydrator 3.3 to rehydrate and relax the leather. 
2. Fatliquor 5.0 to replenish lost fats and oils, restoring suppleness. 
3. Protector B conditioning the leather for ongoing durability.

We welcome your feedback to continuously improve this manual and better address your leather care concerns.

This guide was last updated on March 31, 2025 | April 20, 2025 by Roger Koh.