Omar Khalid
There are several ways to restore the plastic on a quad bike. If you're looking for a quick fix, you can try using a commercial product like PC Racing's Plastic Renew kit, which can restore shine to faded plastics. For deeper scratches, you can use a razor blade to smooth them out, followed by a fine Scotch Brite polishing pad. If you're looking for a more comprehensive restoration, you can try wet sanding with grit sandpaper, followed by buffing and waxing. Other methods include using a heat gun or torch, vinyl flooring liquid wax, or boiled linseed oil. Each method has its pros and cons, so it's important to consider the condition of your quad's plastic and the desired outcome before choosing a restoration technique.
Characteristics and Values Table for Restoring Plastics on a Quad
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for Restoration | Plastics are faded, discolored, and/or oxidized |
| Commercial Products | PC Racing's Plastic Renew, Solution Finish, CAR GUYS Plastic Restorer |
| Commercial Product Application | Apply with a dry cloth, allow to dry for a day |
| Commercial Product Cost | $20.95 for PC Racing's Plastic Renew |
| Commercial Product Coverage | Designed for spot treatments, not entire vehicles |
| Commercial Product Durability | A few months with regular outdoor use |
| Alternative Methods | Sanding and buffing, heat treatment, vinyl flooring liquid wax, linseed oil and paint thinner, Penetrol |
| Sanding and Buffing Supplies | Bucket of water, 180-1000 grit sandpaper, liquid rubbing compound, liquid wax, 10-inch buffer |
| Heat Treatment Tools | Heat gun/torch, but may make plastic more brittle |
| Linseed Oil and Paint Thinner Application | Mix and rub on with a cloth |
| Penetrol Application | Scrub plastic with magic erasers, apply with a paintbrush, wipe off excess, rub in with a towel |
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Sanding and buffing
Sanding:
Start by gathering the necessary materials: a bucket of water, various grit sandpapers (180, 220, 320, 400, 500, 600, and 1000 grit), and safety gloves. The grit number you start with will depend on the severity of the scratches. For deep scratches, begin with a lower grit, such as 180 or 220, and gradually work your way up to finer grits. If the scratches are not as severe, you can start with a higher grit, such as 320 or 400.
Once you have your materials, follow these steps:
- Wet the sandpaper and the plastic surface with water. It is important to use a generous amount of water during the sanding process.
- Start sanding the plastic surface with the chosen grit sandpaper, always sanding in the same direction.
- Work your way up through the grits, sanding the surface with each finer grit sandpaper until you reach the highest grit, which is 1000.
- After sanding with each grit, smooth out the plastic surface and ensure it is even.
Buffing:
For buffing, you will need a liquid rubbing compound (medium grit is recommended), liquid wax (such as vinyl flooring liquid wax), a 10-inch buffer, and clean towels. Optionally, you can use an automotive wax for an extra layer of shine.
- Apply the liquid rubbing compound to the plastic surface using a clean towel.
- Use the buffer to work the compound into the plastic, following the instructions on the compound's packaging.
- After buffing, apply a thin layer of liquid wax to the plastic surface. You can use a car and truck wax applicator for this step.
- Allow the wax to dry completely.
- If desired, apply automotive wax for an added layer of shine and protection.
Additionally, you can use steel wool or a Scotch-Brite polishing pad to buff out any remaining scratches or imperfections after the sanding process but before applying any compounds or waxes.
Remember to always wear protective gear, such as gloves, and work in a well-ventilated area when using chemicals or power tools.
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Heat treatment
When using a heat gun, it is important to set it to a low setting and hold it a few inches above the plastic, moving slowly over the discolored areas. This process melts the top layer of the plastic, making it more brittle and prone to cracking over time. Therefore, it is not recommended for long-term use, and other methods such as using linseed oil or a plastic restorer may be more suitable.
The heat treatment method using a propane torch requires a steady hand and a conscious effort to keep moving along the plastic's surface, similar to airbrushing or spray painting. This method may also have similar drawbacks to the heat gun, as melting the top layer of plastic can make it more brittle.
Overall, while the heat treatment method can effectively restore the plastics on a quad, it may not be a long-term solution due to the potential for making the plastic more brittle. It is important to carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of each restoration method before deciding on the best approach for your specific situation.
Additionally, it is worth noting that severe cracks in the plastic may necessitate replacement rather than restoration. Regular maintenance and protection of the quad's plastics can also help prolong their lifespan and reduce the need for frequent restorations.
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Commercial products
There are several commercial products available to restore the plastic on a quad. One of the most popular is Solution Finish and CAR GUYS Plastic Restorer. Customer testimonials indicate that these products work and can last for several months, depending on how well the ATV is protected.
Another option is to use a vinyl flooring liquid wax, which can be applied in thin layers to the plastic using a car and truck wax applicator. This process is more complex than linseed oil and paint thinner restoration, but it usually has longer-lasting results. After the final layer has dried, automotive wax can be applied for added luster.
For extra-deep scratches, a razor blade can be used to knock off the edges, followed by a Scotch Brite polishing pad kit for deeper scratches. This can be purchased from your local hardware or auto-parts store.
PC Racing's Plastic Renew kit is also a popular choice for restoring a shiny finish to dyed plastics and OEM bodywork panels. The kit costs around $20.95 and can be purchased from your local dealership or directly from PC Racing.
Before using any commercial product, it is important to read the instructions on the label carefully and take the necessary precautions. It is also recommended to clean the ATV thoroughly using a dishwashing liquid such as Dawn to remove any oils and grease from the surface.
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Liquid wax
To restore the plastics on a quad, you can use liquid wax. This method is more complex and involved than using linseed oil and paint thinner, but it typically yields longer-lasting results.
First, you must clean the quad thoroughly. For best results, remove any parts of the machine that are covering the plastics. Then, use a mixture of dishwashing liquid and water to remove grease and oils from the surfaces. You can also use Dawn dishwashing fluid for this step. Next, dry the quad completely.
Now, it's time to prepare the plastic for waxing. Start by sanding the plastic with fine sandpaper, working your way up from the lowest number of sandpaper grit to the highest. You can also use an oscillating tool to speed up the process. Make sure to wear safety gloves, and finish up by sanding with steel wool.
Next, apply a vinyl floor liquid wax to the plastic using a car or truck wax applicator. Work in thin layers, allowing one section to dry while you work on another. You will need to apply several coats, buffing out the plastic with light, circular motions after each application.
Finally, after the last layer is fully dry, finish with an automotive wax for an added layer of sheen and luster.
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Protective layers
Cleaning and Preparation
Begin by thoroughly cleaning your ATV's plastics. Use a suitable cleaning agent, such as Dawn dishwashing fluid, to remove any grease, oils, or dirt buildup. This step ensures that the surface is free from contaminants that may interfere with the restoration process and the formation of a protective layer.
Sanding and Buffing
Sanding is an essential step in preparing the plastic surface for the application of protective treatments. Start with a finer grit sandpaper and gradually increase the grit size. Work your way up from lower grits, such as 180 or 220, to higher grits like 400, 600, and even 1000. Wet sanding is recommended, using ample water to prevent scratching and achieve a smooth finish.
Buffing is the next crucial step. Buff the plastic surface with a suitable buffing compound and a buffer operating at around 1400 rpm. This process helps to refine the scratches created by sanding, resulting in an even smoother surface.
Protective Treatments
Several options are available for establishing a protective layer on your quad's plastics:
- Linseed Oil and Paint Thinner Restoration: Apply boiled linseed oil, which helps remove oxidation and restore the plastic's original colour. Use a dry cloth for application and allow it to dry for a full day. This method can last for several months, depending on the usage of your ATV.
- Vinyl Flooring Liquid Wax: Apply thin layers of liquid wax to the plastic, using a car and truck wax applicator. This process requires multiple coats, and it is essential to polish the plastic after each application. Finish with an automotive wax for added shine and protection.
- Commercial Restorers: Products like Solution Finish and CAR GUYS Plastic Restorer are popular choices. These restorers are designed to reverse fading and restore the plastic's appearance.
- Heat Treatment: Using a heat gun or torch on its lowest setting, apply heat a few inches away from the plastic, moving slowly over discoloured areas. This method provides instant results, making faded plastic appear new. However, it is debated due to concerns that it may make plastics more brittle over time.
- Penetrol: Penetrol forms a protective layer that shields the plastic from sun damage. It can be applied with a paintbrush, and excess can be wiped off or rubbed in with a towel.
Remember that the longevity of these treatments varies depending on the product used and the usage of your ATV. Regular maintenance and reapplication of protective treatments will help ensure the longevity of your quad's plastics.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several methods to restore plastics on a quad, including sanding and buffing, heat treatment, commercial products, and liquid wax.
The best method depends on the severity of the fading and your personal preference. Commercial products like Plastic Renew are effective for spot treatments, while heat treatment is recommended for larger surface areas.
For deep scratches, use a razor blade to knock off the edges, then use a fine Scotch-Brite polishing pad to remove the remaining scratch marks.
Start with lower-grit sandpaper (180-220) and gradually increase to higher grits (up to 1000) to smooth out the plastic. Then, buff the plastic with a buffer or steel wool to achieve a shiny finish.
Yes, you can try using a mixture of linseed oil and paint thinner, or a liquid wax such as vinyl flooring liquid wax, to restore the plastics. These methods may require more coats and can be more complex, but they can provide longer-lasting results.
