Just like going to an automobile repair shop:

What is the:

Make

Model

and Year?

For a 1977 Mustang with a fender ding and primer-paint - yeah take it to a friend's friend apply dry-ice and see what happens.

For a 1965 Cobra.......??????

Look you got a good, steady gig at a nursing home. Why risk your savings and career?

Politely say NO....and say nothing else....no references ... nothing.

Perhaps, the hunk of wood is worthless....but....perhaps, the old lady's heir's believe it WAS priceless (until you mucked around in areas you do not understand) and then destroyed and heirloom treasure.

Do nothing and you are safe ..... attempt to save something of unknown value and your career could become nothing.

Sincerely,

Gargoyle