Alexei Volkov
Faded Sea-Doo plastic can be unsightly and decrease the value of your watercraft. Fortunately, there are several ways to restore it to its former glory. Most plastic fading is a result of oxidization, which causes plastic to wear down and develop a rougher texture. You can easily remove oxidation with sandpaper, vinegar, or a bleach solution. Alternatively, you can use a heat gun to melt the discoloured layer off. Simply keep the heat gun on its lowest setting, holding it 4–6 inches away from the plastic and moving it around in small sections. For a more long-term solution, you can use a ceramic coating like IGL Ecocoat Trim, which seals and protects the plastic, restoring and protecting it from UV damage and fading for up to 2 years.
Characteristics and Values Table for Restoring Faded Sea-Doo Plastic
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause of Fading | Oxidization, sun exposure |
| Removal Methods | Sandpaper, vinegar, bleach solution, hydrogen peroxide, detergent, household cleaner, soapy water, heat gun, ceramic coating |
| Notes on Heat Guns | Use lowest setting, keep 4-6 inches from plastic, move in small sections to avoid overheating and melting |
| Notes on Cleaning Solutions | Mix detergent, cleaner, bleach, and water in specific proportions, wear protective gear, rinse with cold water, repeat if needed |
| Commercial Products | IGL Ecocoat Trim, Mequiar's Hot Shine Tire Coating |
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What You'll Learn
Using a heat gun
Restoring faded Sea-Doo plastic with a heat gun is a tricky process that requires patience and consistency. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:
Prepare the Plastic Surface
Before using the heat gun, ensure the plastic surface is clean and free of any dirt or contaminants. This step is crucial as dirt and sun damage often contribute to the discoloration of plastic. You can use soapy water and sandpaper to scrub hard plastic or a mixture of detergent, household cleaner, water, and bleach for softer plastics. It is important to protect any painted surfaces or chrome around the plastic with masking tape, as the heat from the gun can damage paint.
Using the Heat Gun
Plug in your heat gun and set it to the lowest heat setting. Keep the gun 4 to 6 inches away from the plastic surface and continuously move it in a concentric pattern around the area you are treating. Be sure to keep the gun moving at all times to avoid overheating any single spot, which can cause melting or warping. As you apply heat, you will see spots begin to appear, which is called "sweating." This is the desired effect, as it indicates that the plastic is breaking down and the chemical bonds are realigning.
Applying a Protectant
Once you have treated each section and the plastic has returned to its original color, it is important to apply a protectant to seal and protect the plastic. Meguiar's Ultimate Black plastic restorer is a recommended product that chemically adheres to vinyls and plastics, providing a strong layer of UV protection. Alternatively, you can use natural products like glycerin, which can be rubbed onto the warm plastic surface and polished.
Post-Treatment Care
While using a heat gun can effectively restore faded Sea-Doo plastic, it is not a permanent solution. Proper care and protection are still required to maintain the plastic's appearance and extend its life. Regularly cleaning the plastic and storing it in a shaded area can help prevent future fading. Additionally, applying a UV-resistant sealant every few months can provide a protective barrier against sunlight and other environmental contaminants.
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Cleaning with vinegar and water
To restore faded Sea-Doo plastic, one method is to use a mixture of vinegar and water. This is a simple and quick solution that can be used to remove oxidation and grime from plastic surfaces.
First, create the cleaning solution by mixing equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. The amount of the solution will depend on the size of the area you are cleaning. For example, when cleaning a bodyboard, a solution of around one cup may be sufficient. For larger areas, you may need to scale up the mixture.
Next, apply the vinegar and water solution to the Sea-Doo plastic. You can do this by spraying it directly onto the surface or by using a clean rag or sponge to wipe it on. Make sure the solution is applied evenly across the plastic.
Once the solution has been applied, let it sit for a few moments. Then, scrub the surface with a clean sponge or a soft brush to work the solution into the plastic and remove any dirt or oxidation. Pay particular attention to any stubborn areas or stains.
Finally, rinse the Sea-Doo plastic with water to remove any remaining vinegar solution. Depending on the item, you can use a hose or faucet to rinse, or for more delicate items, wipe the surface with a wet cloth. Once rinsed, dry the plastic with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
This process can be repeated if the plastic is still faded after the first attempt. However, instead of letting the solution sit on the plastic, scrub it into the surface immediately after application.
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Using detergent, cleaner and bleach
To restore faded Sea-Doo plastic, you can use detergent, cleaner, and bleach. This method is suitable for softer plastics. Here is a step-by-step guide:
First, put on protective gear, including thick rubber gloves and goggles, to ensure your safety during the process. Next, prepare the mixture by combining the ingredients in the following proportions: mix one-third cup (79 mL) of liquid laundry detergent with two-thirds cup (160 mL) of an all-purpose household cleaner. Then, add one US quart (950 mL) of bleach and one US gallon (3.8 L) of water. Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area when handling bleach and wear protective gear, including gloves and eye protection.
Once you have the mixture ready, pour it into a spray bottle for easy application. Take your Sea-Doo outside and spray the discolored areas generously with the mixture. Allow the solution to soak for 2-3 minutes. This will give the mixture time to work on the stains and discoloration.
After the solution has soaked into the plastic, thoroughly rinse the area with cold water. Finally, wash the treated plastic with soap and water to remove any residue and ensure that the Sea-Doo is safe to use again. You can repeat this process if needed until your Sea-Doo plastic is completely restored to its original color.
Additionally, if you want to try an alternative method, some Sea-Doo owners have reported success with using a heat gun on its lowest setting to melt away the discolored layer of plastic, revealing the original color underneath. However, it is important to be cautious when using a heat gun as it can easily damage the plastic if not used correctly.
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Applying a ceramic coating
Preparation
Firstly, you need to ensure that the plastic surface is clean and free of any dirt or grime. Wash the Sea-Doo with a high-quality automotive prep shampoo, and then wipe down the plastic surfaces with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) right before applying the ceramic coating. It is important to work in a clean, dust-free, and well-ventilated space to avoid any impurities in the coating.
Application
For the application process, you will need a high-quality nano-ceramic coating product and a good quality microfiber cloth. Apply the coating onto the cloth and then spread it evenly across the plastic surface. Be careful not to apply the coating too thickly, as this could lead to an uneven coat or trapped bubbles.
Drying and Buffing
Allow the coating to dry for 1-5 minutes. You will know it is ready when a haze forms on the plastic. At this point, take a clean microfiber cloth and buff off the excess coating.
Benefits
A nano-ceramic coating will not only restore the plastic trim to its original colour and shine but also add a layer of protection. The coating will shield the plastic from the sun, dirt, tree sap, and other contaminants, preventing discolouration and weakening of the plastic. It will also give the plastic a glossy finish, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your Sea-Doo.
Maintenance
Ceramic coatings are known for their durability and long-lasting effects, typically lasting between 2 to 5 years. However, proper maintenance is key to ensuring their longevity. Thankfully, ceramic coatings have self-cleaning properties, reducing the amount of upkeep required.
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Painting the plastic
Firstly, ensure you are wearing protective clothing, including thick rubber gloves and protective goggles. Then, mix 1/3 cup (79 mL) of liquid laundry detergent with 2/3 cup (160 mL) of all-purpose household cleaner. Next, add 1 US quart (950 mL) of bleach and 1 US gallon (3.8 L) of water. Mix the ingredients and add the solution to a spray bottle. Take your Sea-Doo outside and spray the discoloured area. Leave the solution to soak for 2-3 minutes before rinsing with cold water. Finally, wash the plastic with soap and water.
If you wish to proceed with painting the plastic, ensure you are in a well-ventilated area and are wearing the correct protective clothing. Choose a paint that is suitable for use on plastic and follow the instructions on the paint container. It is important to prepare the surface of the plastic before painting to ensure the paint adheres properly. Use a mild abrasive, such as sandpaper, to roughen the surface of the plastic, then wipe away any dust or debris with a damp cloth. Apply a thin layer of primer to the plastic and allow it to dry. Once the primer is dry, you can begin painting. Follow the instructions on the paint container for the correct application method and drying time.
It is important to note that painting plastic may not result in a durable finish, and the paint may chip, peel, or fade over time. Additionally, painting plastic may void any manufacturer's warranty on the Sea-Doo, so it is important to check before proceeding.
To avoid the need for painting, consider using a ceramic coating, such as IGL Ecocoat Trim, which can protect and rejuvenate exterior plastics, offering enhanced longevity and resistance to UV and water damage.
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Frequently asked questions
A heat gun can be used to restore faded plastic to its original colour. Keep the heat gun on its lowest setting, 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) away from the plastic and move it around in small sections.
A ceramic coating like IGL Coating's Ecocoat Trim can seal and protect plastic from UV damage and fading for up to 2 years.
Peanut butter can be used to restore faded plastic, but it may damage the integrity of the plastic and is not a long-term solution.
A mixture of vinegar and water can be used to restore faded vinyl plastic. For softer plastics, a mixture of detergent, household cleaner, water, and bleach can be used.
Plastic that has faded to a yellow or brown colour was likely made with bromine, which causes plastic to change colour over time. This can be reversed using hydrogen peroxide.
