Sofia Martinez
Plastic dash lenses can be tricky to clean and are prone to scratches. The plastic is sensitive to even the gentlest touch, and all plastics, even hard plastics, can be easily damaged by certain cleaning supplies. To polish a plastic dash lens, it is recommended to use a plastic cleaner, such as Polyvance's 1000 Super Prep, or a window cleaner or isopropyl alcohol as substitutes. If there are deep scratches, one can start with 80-grit sandpaper and then switch to finer grit sandpaper, such as 150 grit, to remove the scratches made by the coarser sandpaper. After sanding, a coarse polishing compound can be applied and polished with a machine or by hand.
How to Polish a Plastic Dash Lens
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic type | Polycarbonate (Lexan) |
| Susceptibility to damage | UV radiation from the sun |
| Appearance after damage | Yellowed, cloudy, scratched, or gouged |
| Cleaning products | Polyvance’s 1000 Super Prep, window cleaner, isopropyl alcohol, PlastX, Zaino Z-14 Plastic Magic Cleaner & Polish, DP Plex-All, Plexus, Carpro Essence |
| Sanding process | Start with 80-grit sandpaper to remove deep scratches, then gradually use finer grit sandpaper (e.g., 150, 120, 180) until scratches are removed |
| Polishing | Apply a coarse polishing compound and polish with a machine (dual action polisher is safer than a rotary polisher) or by hand with a terry cloth towel |
| Protection | Clearcoats can be sprayed over the polished lens to protect from future UV damage |
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What You'll Learn
Use a plastic cleaner to clean the lens before sanding
When it comes to polishing a plastic dash lens, it is important to clean the lens before sanding. This is because sanding a plastic lens without first cleaning it can result in scratches and an uneven finish. The purpose of cleaning the lens is to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that could create scratches during the sanding process.
Before sanding, it is recommended to use a plastic cleaner, such as Polyvance's 1000 Super Prep, to ensure the surface is free of any contaminants. Window cleaner or isopropyl alcohol can also be effective substitutes for a professional plastic cleaner. Using a plastic cleaner will help to dissolve and remove any stubborn grime or grease on the lens, preparing it for the sanding process.
It is important to follow the product maker's instructions when using a plastic cleaner. Typically, the cleaner is applied to the lens and then wiped off with a clean cloth. Some cleaners may require a rinse with water afterward. Make sure the lens is thoroughly dried before moving on to the sanding step.
Additionally, it is worth noting that once the initial cleaning is done, it is advisable to avoid using liquid cleaners on the raw, exposed plastic before sanding. This is because some liquid cleaners can leave residue or solvents that can interfere with the sanding process and the subsequent application of adhesives. Therefore, after the initial cleaning with a plastic cleaner, compressed air can be used to remove any remaining dust or particles without the risk of leaving residue.
By taking the time to clean the plastic dash lens with an appropriate cleaner before sanding, you can ensure that the surface is properly prepared, reducing the risk of scratches and achieving a smoother, more uniform finish.
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Sand the lens with coarse grit sandpaper
Sanding the lens with coarse grit sandpaper is the first step in the process of polishing a plastic dash lens. It is important to start with a coarse grit sandpaper, such as 80-grit sandpaper, to remove all the surface imperfections and scratches on the lens. This type of sandpaper will help remove deep scratches and create a uniform surface. It is normal for the lens to be covered in scratches after this step.
When sanding, it is important to be delicate and not apply too much pressure, especially when dealing with plastic lenses. You can use a power sander or do it by hand, but be aware that the latter will take longer. If you are using a power sander, a dual-action sander is recommended. Make sure to clean the lens with a plastic cleaner or a substitute like window cleaner or isopropyl alcohol before using sandpaper.
After sanding with the coarse grit sandpaper, you will need to switch to a finer grit. It is important to progress through the grits gradually, without jumping to a grit that is too fine. For example, you could start with 80-grit, then move to 150-grit, and then to 180-grit. This gradual progression ensures that you effectively remove the scratches from the previous step.
Once you reach the finer grits, such as 1500 and 2000 grit sandpaper, the lens will start to look clearer and less scratched. At this stage, you are refining the finish and working towards achieving the desired level of clarity. Remember to inspect the lens closely after each sanding stage to ensure that all previous scratches have been adequately removed.
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Sand with progressively finer grit sandpaper
To polish a plastic dash lens, you will need to sand it with progressively finer grit sandpaper. This process is not difficult, but it does take time and effort.
First, clean the lens with a plastic cleaner or a window cleaner or isopropyl alcohol. If there are deep scratches on the lens, start with 80-grit sandpaper. Keep sanding with the coarse sandpaper until all the scratches and gouges are gone and the lens has a uniform appearance.
After you're done with the coarse grit, switch to the next finer grit. For example, you could go from 80-grit to 150-grit. It's important not to skip too many grades when moving to a finer grit to ensure that you can effectively remove the scratches from the previous step. Continue sanding, gradually progressing to finer grits like 120, 150, or 180 grit.
When you reach the 1500 and 2000 grit sandpapers, the lens will start to look clearer and less scratched. Finish sanding with the 2000 grit, and then proceed to apply a coarse polishing compound. You can polish the lens with a machine, such as a dual-action polisher, or by hand using a terry cloth towel.
By sanding the plastic lens with progressively finer grit sandpaper, you will achieve a smooth and clear finish, restoring it to a condition close to its original state.
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Apply a coarse polishing compound
To apply a coarse polishing compound, start by cleaning the plastic dash lens with a plastic cleaner, such as Polyvance's 1000 Super Prep. If you don't have access to a professional cleaner, a window cleaner or isopropyl alcohol are good substitutes. Once the lens is clean, you can begin the sanding process, starting with a coarse grit sandpaper, such as 80 grit or 200 grit, to remove any deep scratches or surface imperfections. It is important to sand the entire lens until it is uniformly scratched.
After completing the coarse grit sanding, switch to a finer grit sandpaper, such as 150 grit or 180 grit. It is important to avoid stepping up to a grit that is too fine, as this will make it difficult to remove the scratches from the previous step. Continue sanding with progressively finer grits, such as 320 grit or 600 grit, until you reach 1500 grit and 2000 grit sandpaper. At this stage, the lens should start to look clearer than scratched.
Once you have finished sanding with the 2000 grit sandpaper, you can apply the coarse polishing compound. This can be done using a machine, such as a rotary polisher, or by hand with a terry cloth towel. If using a machine, be cautious not to overheat and burn the plastic. The polishing process involves abrading the plastic with a progressively finer grade of polishing compound until you achieve the desired result. If you have access to a finer grade of polishing compound, use it after the coarse compound to further refine the finish.
By following these steps and working through the grits in a gradual progression, you can effectively apply a coarse polishing compound to your plastic dash lens, improving its clarity and aesthetic appeal. Remember to take your time and use the appropriate safety equipment when working with power tools and chemicals.
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Protect the lens with a clearcoat spray
To protect your dash lens from further UV damage, you can apply a clearcoat spray over the polished lens. This will help to keep the lens clear and prevent it from becoming cloudy or yellowed in the future. While the lens may still become cloudy over time, you can repeat the process of sanding and polishing to restore it to its original condition.
Before applying the clearcoat spray, it is important to ensure that the lens is clean and free of any scratches or imperfections. You can use a plastic cleaner or a window cleaner to clean the lens, and then use sandpaper to remove any scratches or gouges. Start with a coarse 80-grit sandpaper to remove the surface imperfections, and then switch to finer grits, such as 150 or 180 grit, to remove the scratches made by the coarser sandpaper.
Once the lens is free of scratches, you can apply the clearcoat spray. Follow the instructions on the product you have chosen, as different products may have different application methods or curing times. Be sure to apply the spray evenly and thoroughly to ensure that the lens is fully protected.
It is important to note that the clearcoat spray is not a permanent solution, and the lens may still become cloudy or scratched over time. However, by regularly maintaining and polishing the lens, you can help to prolong its clarity and protect it from UV damage.
In addition to using a clearcoat spray, you can also use plastic cleaners and polishes specifically designed for dashboard lenses. These products can help to fill in scratches and restore the lens to its original clarity. Some recommended products include Megs Plastix, Zaino Z-14 Plastic Magic Cleaner & Polish, DP Plex-All, and Carpro Essence.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a plastic cleaner, such as Polyvance’s 1000 Super Prep, or a window cleaner or isopropyl alcohol as substitutes. You can also try products such as Megs Plastix, Zaino Z-14 Plastic Magic Cleaner & Polish, DP Plex-All (or Plexus), and Carpro Essence.
First, clean the lens with a plastic cleaner. Then, use 80-grit sandpaper to remove surface imperfections and scratches. Move to a finer grit sandpaper, such as 150 grit, and keep sanding until scratches are removed. Finally, apply a coarse polishing compound and polish with a machine or by hand with a terry cloth towel.
To protect the lens from UV damage, you can spray a clear coat over the polished lens.
