cloudy plexiglass windshield restoration?

[Linda Peterson]

I'm wondering if you wise folks would have an answer - at the moment I am SerroScotty-less, am jealous of all of you folks with your vintage rigs and your trips around the country.  But I shall be joining the ranks soon when finances permits.

 

I have a vintage boat with a plexiglass windshield that is cloudy.  Does anyone know a resolution short of buying another? (expensive)

 

Thanks for any pointers.   Happy trails -

[William Martin]

As I understand it you are never supposed to use regular glass cleaners or paper towels on plexiglass - it causes the surface to become cloudy and also leaves minute scratches.  I found that out too late. :(  There are special cleaners to use on plexiglass, either in your local store or can be ordered online.  In the meantime, there are polishing kits that supposedly remove the scratches and cloudiness.  I haven't tried any of them yet, but if you look up "cloudy plexiglass" I'm sure you'll find something.  If you try any of them, let us know how it works out.  I'm looking at either doing the same or getting new windows. 

Cindy

[Linda Peterson]

Thanks Cindy.  I should add that I've combed the Internet, been told "toothpaste works", been told some kits that are used to restore lights on motorcycles, etc. works - but I haven't encountered anyone who has tried something that actually works.   I'll look forward to seeing whether anyone on this forum has had actual success.   Many thanks - from the State of Maine.

[William Martin]

Not sure if this will help you, but this website has information on the Novus products.  They are specifically designed for windows and plexiglass restoration.  I'll probably try it on my windows (which are curved and hard to replace).  Possibly go to Novus itself for more info:  http://www.eplastics.com/Plastic_Polish

[Linda Peterson]

Thank you kindly William.  Looking forward to glancing at that website!

[Lakota Wolf]

With Plexiglass, restoring the clearness is real touchy. As you mentioned, its on a boat. 90% of cloudiness and discoloration is due to sun damage and exposure to the elements. With Plexi, its a porous product.

Tooth paste (gell type), has been tried with minimal to fair results. Depending how damaged the plexi is,, try a dab in a lower corner with a terry cloth, (soft car waxing cloth), and keep it wet while rubbing in slow circles, (Don't let it get dry or it will cut scratches into the glass). rinse off and inspect the progress. 

If it still has the dull haze,, the damage is deep with in the plexi. Most of the Youtube video's are showing cleaning minimal hazing on motorcycle visors etc. and the headlight commercials showing a quick wipe with that Only On Tv product is road grime, Not actual plexi hazing.

[Joe and April Skidmore]

Before spending big dollars on different product try this one,  Meguiar's PLASTX . It is around $6 at Wal-Mart. I have used this on the head lights on my Semi Truck. Wash with hot soapy water and dry.  Now start rubbing and buffing by hand. You may have to reapply a few times. Now if you get good results but still cant see through the windshield, Meguiar's does make a headlight restorer that may finish the job for you.  Hope this helps

[Linda Peterson]

Thanks for that advice.  I just e-mailed the Meguiar's website - am hoping someone there will be familiar with this problem and offer some possible resolutions.   I understand this may be just plain ol' sun damage to my windshield, but even a slight improvement would be a huge help.  Thanks to all of you who have offered advice!   If I hear any good news, I'll pass it along on your website   :-)

[russell price]

Hi I hope this helps I'm a Aircraft Mech.what we use to repair plex glass is a Micro mesh kit you can order it from Eastwood auto on line the sand paper starts at about 1800 grit and goes to 12000 grit an a finish polish these kits do a good job and you can use it on stainless steel or just about anything hope this works

[Linda Peterson]

Thanks for the tip Russell - I'll look at their website   :-)