Restoring faded plastic?

[iron21]

Hi, the plastic(unsure of type of plastic) dash/instrument cluster on my '89 Maxum is badly faded, and has a very blotchy, uneven appearance. I tried using 3M Plastic polish, but didnt really do much. Are there any other products or techniques that could be used to help restore the plastic? thanks.

 

[bounder4465]

Re: Restoring faded plastic?

If you dont find a restore product you can paint the parts. You must first prime the plastic with a polyproplene(spelling?) primer following the surface cleaning directions on the can. It is available at any autobody supply store, plus can be found it at NAPA. A lesson learned the hard way if you decide to use this method; use a good satin finish spray paint (automotive rubber bumper paint works well) with as few lights coats as possible. Department store fizzy cans will flake off..learned the hard way. If your boat sits out a lot this method my not be the best choice.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Restoring faded plastic?

Jamie, <br />I am not sure if faded/discolored plastic could be restored without painting it. My dash was a straight piece of plastic panel screwed with 4 screws to the fiberglass. Here is what I did: I found "cherry wood" formica or wood veneer and used the plastic as a template. "Rotozip" or "Dremel" tool is perfect for things like this. The result - you get a beautiful panel at low cost. Maybe your panel is different and is more complex construction wise. I wouldn't be able to tell unless I see picture. But if it's just the piece with instrument gauges, I highly recommend formica.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Restoring faded plastic?

Ayuh,.........<br />I Don't Think there's a Cure for SunBurned Plastic.........<br /><br />Paint,.... or replacement.......

 

[iron21]

Re: Restoring faded plastic?

well, thanks for the replies. Lenny, thats a good idea, but i dont think it would work on my particular dash. My instr panel/dash has too many round edges and indentations.Looks like my options are paint or replace.. I'll have to get a price on new plastic set-ups and go from there.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Restoring faded plastic?

Jamie,<br />Have you considered bendable plywood? Check with local lumbar yard if they have this kind of ply. You may be best with 1/8 or 1/4 at most anything thicker will not be as flexible. Coat with epoxy and bend it to shape. Formica is flexible but will require heating with heat gun. Oh, you could get a "radius" ply from lumbar yard. Four inch radius is a 4", 90 degree bend. Glue radius with bendable plywood - that is your round edge. <br />What you want to do is up to you. Maybe painting is your best choice as you will save time and money.<br />As I am writing this, I just had a thought. I would try "carbon fiber" look by applying carbon fiber vinyl/sticker on your original dash. I'm not sure if it will last long but will sure look good. It may last longer if you make sure your seams are facing down, so water would not get on the seam. If you have a cover for your boat I say this will last for many years before you will need to re-apply the film. <br />Good price too HERE

 

[Realgun]

Re: Restoring faded plastic?

Is the plastic like the dashboard in a car? Is it like a vinyl?<br /><br />If it is you may want to use something called Vinyl Dye. This is a dye that goes on like spray paint but is not going to rub or wear off like paint will. You can get it al most auto parts stores.