Maya Ellison
Faded ATV plastic is a common issue for owners, with vehicles spending the majority of their time outdoors, exposing them to sunlight, dirt, mud, snow, and water. The plastic body of ATVs can become discoloured and scuffed, with oils in the plastic evaporating over time, leading to inevitable fading. However, there are several methods to restore the plastic to its former glory.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleaning products | Mr. Clean, SC1, Torque Plastic Restore, X-Tream’s MX/ATV Wash, dish soap, paint thinner, linseed oil, epoxy, superglue |
| Tools | Metal sponge, sandpaper, steel wool, heat gun, blow torch, car wax applicator |
| Techniques | Wash with full-strength cleaner, scrub with a rag, sand, polish, wax, spray paint |
| Considerations | Prevent sun damage, remove all parts covering the plastic, coat with an anti-mud agent, repeat process for best results |
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What You'll Learn
Clean the ATV plastic thoroughly
To clean ATV plastic thoroughly, you must first understand why it fades. The plastic body of ATVs fades due to exposure to sunlight, dirt, mud, snow, and water. Over time, the oils in the plastic evaporate, leading to discolouration. Therefore, it is essential to clean your ATV regularly and thoroughly to prevent fading and keep it looking new.
Start by removing the skid plates and racks. If they are severely damaged, consider replacing them. Next, create a mixture of dishwashing liquid and water to remove all grease and oils from the surfaces. You can also use a specialised ATV plastic cleaner, such as X-Tream's MX/ATV Wash, which contains a washing compound, a wax compound, and a shielding agent to protect against mud and debris. Apply the cleaner with a cloth, using light, even, concentric circles to coat all plastic parts, including hard-to-reach areas like the bottom of fender flares.
Once the plastic is clean, you may need to sand it with fine sandpaper, gradually increasing the grit from low to high. Wear safety gloves during this process, and finish by sanding with steel wool. This step prepares the plastic for the next stage of restoration.
After sanding, ensure you remove all the dust from the sanding process. You can use compressed air or a vacuum to get into tight spaces and ensure all dust is removed. It is crucial to have a perfectly clean surface before proceeding with any restoration methods, such as applying a plastic restorer, wax, or paint.
Remember, cleaning your ATV plastic is a long and necessary process. Taking the time to do it right will ensure your ATV looks brand new again and prevent future damage.
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Use a heat gun to restore shine
Using a heat gun to restore shine on ATV plastic is a method that can deliver instant results. However, it is important to note that this method has its downsides and should be approached with caution.
Firstly, it is crucial to clean the ATV's plastic thoroughly before starting the process. This can be done using isopropyl alcohol, ensuring that the surface is free from dust, dirt, and grime particles that may hinder the effectiveness of the heat gun treatment.
When using the heat gun, it is recommended to set it to the lowest temperature setting. Hold the heat gun a few inches away from the plastic surface, maintaining a distance of around 2 to 5 inches. Slowly move the heat gun over the discolored areas, ensuring that you do not stay in one place for too long. The heat from the gun will partially melt the top layer of plastic, giving it a new, glossy appearance.
While this method can instantly make the plastic look brand new, it is important to understand the potential negative consequences. The extreme heat from the gun can erode layers of plastic, making it more brittle and susceptible to breaks over time. Therefore, this method should be used sparingly and with caution.
Additionally, it is worth noting that there are alternative methods to restore ATV plastic, such as using linseed oil, plastic restorers, or paint. These methods may be safer and more long-lasting options to consider before resorting to a heat gun.
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Apply boiled linseed oil
To apply boiled linseed oil to your ATV's plastic, you'll first need to clean your ATV thoroughly. For best results, remove the rack and any other parts covering the plastics. This is important because even if you can't see them, dust, dirt, and grime particles are still present, and if left there before restoration, you'll end up with a streaky finish on your plastic.
Next, you'll need to prepare your mixture of boiled linseed oil and paint thinner. Note that this doesn't mean you should boil the linseed oil yourself; it means that the linseed oil has been pre-treated to dry faster. The recommended ratio of linseed oil to paint thinner is 40/60.
Once your mixture is ready, apply it to the plastic using a dry cloth. You'll notice that the linseed oil will remove the oxidization that's causing the fading. After you've applied the mixture to all the plastic, allow it a full day to dry. If you keep your ATV covered and don't use it every day, this fix will last for a few months. However, if you constantly use your ATV outdoors, you may need to reapply the treatment in 4-6 weeks.
While boiled linseed oil can restore some colour to dull plastics, it may not be as effective as other methods, such as using a heat gun or a dedicated plastic restorer product. Additionally, the process of restoring ATV plastic with linseed oil and paint thinner is less complex and time-consuming than waxing, but it may not yield as long-lasting results.
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Use a plastic restorer
To restore the shine of faded ATV plastic, you can use a plastic restorer. This method is more complex than linseed oil and paint thinner restoration but tends to yield longer-lasting results.
First, ensure your ATV is clean. Wash it with a product like full-strength Mr. Clean, working from the bottom up. Dry the vehicle thoroughly. The cleaner your ATV is at the start, the better the plastic restoration will be. Even if you can't see it, dust, dirt, and grime particles are still present, and if left, they can cause a streaky finish on the plastic.
Next, apply a plastic restorer product such as McGuires number 40 wipes, Meguiers black plastic restorer, SC1, WD40, or Mother's Back to Black. You can also use a plastic or metal polish, applying a small amount to cover the dull areas, then working it in with a clean, dry cloth in a circular motion. Repeat this process until the plastic shines like new.
Alternatively, you can use a vinyl flooring liquid wax with a car and truck wax applicator. Apply thin layers, working on one area while another section dries. You will need to apply several coats, polishing the plastic after each application. Once the final layer is dry, finish with an automotive wax for added shine.
While some sources recommend using a heat gun on its lowest setting to instantly restore shine to ATV plastic, this method can make the plastic more brittle over time.
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Paint over the plastic
Painting over the plastic is an option to restore the shine on your ATV. It is important to note that paint is not a permanent solution and will eventually start to fade. However, it can last longer than other repair options and can be easily reapplied when needed.
To paint over the plastic on your ATV, you will need to use spray paints specifically designed for ATV plastic. It is recommended to apply a primer coat first and then a safety top layer for optimal results. You can find these products at most hardware stores or automotive supply shops.
Before painting, ensure that your ATV is thoroughly cleaned and dried. Use a product like Dawn dishwashing fluid to remove any oils or grease from the surface. Pay special attention to the plastic parts that are faded, as these areas will need a thorough cleaning to ensure the paint adheres properly.
Once the ATV is clean and dry, you can begin the painting process. Follow the instructions on the spray paint can and apply the primer coat first. Allow this to dry completely before applying the coloured paint. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area and to wear the appropriate protective gear, such as a respirator and gloves, during the painting process.
After the paint has been applied and dried, you may want to consider adding an extra layer of protection. You can use a vinyl flooring liquid wax and apply it with a car or truck wax applicator. This will provide a lustrous finish and help protect the paint. Remember to apply thin layers and work on one area at a time, allowing each section to dry before moving on.
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Frequently asked questions
The plastic body of ATVs fades due to exposure to sunlight, dirt, mud, snow, and water.
First, remove the skid plates and racks. If they are severely damaged, replace them. Next, clean the ATV with a mixture of dishwashing liquid and water to remove grease and oils.
You can use a plastic restorer, apply boiled linseed oil mixed with paint thinner, use a heat gun, or cover the plastic with spray paint.
Set the heat gun to the lowest setting and hold it a few inches away from the plastic, moving slowly over discolored areas. This method works instantly but may make the plastic more brittle over time.
After cleaning and restoring the plastic, apply a small amount of plastic or metal polish in a circular motion with a clean, dry cloth. Repeat this process until the plastic shines like new.
