Chloe Zhang
ATVs spend most of their time outdoors, so it's no surprise that their plastic bodies can become discoloured by sunlight, dirt, mud, snow, and water. Fortunately, there are several ways to restore ATV plastics without having to spend a fortune on brand-new replacements. Some methods include using a heat gun, linseed oil, plastic restorers, sanding and waxing, or painting. Each method varies in terms of cost, ease of application, and durability. For example, while a heat gun can make plastic look as good as new, it also makes the plastic more brittle and prone to cracking over time. On the other hand, sanding and waxing or using a plastic restorer like Solution Finish or CAR GUYS Plastic Restorer can be more labour-intensive but typically yield longer-lasting results.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for restoration | ATV plastics become discoloured from sunlight and scratched from riding in dirt, mud, snow, and water. |
| Restoration methods | Heat gun, linseed oil, plastic restorer, wax, plastic renew kit, sanding, and repainting. |
| Commercial plastic restorers | Solution Finish, CAR GUYS Plastic Restorer, and Amazon ATV plastic restorer. |
| Restoration process | Clean the ATV, sand the plastic, apply restoration product, and buff or polish. |
| Restoration frequency | Every few months or 4-6 weeks, depending on usage. |
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Using a heat gun
To use a heat gun, start by cleaning the plastic surface with a product like fine steel wool to remove any dirt, stains, or grime. This is important because the heat may cause discolouration if the plastic is not properly cleaned. Next, turn on the heat gun and allow it to heat up. It is recommended to start with a low-temperature setting to avoid damaging the plastic. Hold the heat gun about 2 to 3 inches away from the plastic surface. You can adjust the distance and temperature depending on the results, but be careful not to touch the plastic directly with the gun, as it will melt.
As you apply heat to the plastic, you will notice that it becomes shiny and very hot to the touch. Keep the heat gun moving to avoid concentrating heat in one spot for too long, which can cause melting or warping. The time required for this process will depend on the size and condition of the plastic surface, but it could take around 2 hours to complete an entire ATV.
After treating the plastic with the heat gun, you can apply car wax to bring back the shine. This method is known to work well for fixing white "stress marks" caused by bending or rubbing against objects. However, it is important to note that this process may make the plastic more brittle and prone to cracking over time. Additionally, the results may not be permanent, and the discolouration may return after the plastic cools down.
While using a heat gun can be an inexpensive and effective way to temporarily restore ATV plastics, it is important to understand its limitations and potential drawbacks. For long-term remediation, other methods such as using plastic restorers or linseed oil might be preferable.
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Plastic restorers
There are several methods and products available to restore ATV plastics. Firstly, it is important to note that ATVs spend most of their time outdoors, so their plastic body can become discoloured due to sunlight, dirt, mud, snow, and water. The plastic can also get scratched by boots or passing particles, and cracks can appear in the body or windshield.
One popular product is the Plastic Renew kit by PC Racing, which retails for around $20.95. The kit restores a shiny finish to all dyed plastics and OEM bodywork panels but does not work on painted finishes. The process involves sanding the plastic with grit paper, smoothing it out with lighter-grit paper, and then applying the Plastic Renew solution with a towel. Several coats of the solution are required, with five minutes of drying time between each coat.
Another option is to use a heat gun on a low setting, held a few inches above the problem plastic. This method works by melting the top layer of plastic, making it more brittle and prone to cracking over time. Therefore, while it may make the plastic look as good as new, it is not recommended.
Other methods include using linseed oil, which removes the oxidization causing fading, or a plastic restorer product like Solution Finish or CAR GUYS Plastic Restorer. These products can be applied according to the instructions on the label and are suitable for reversing fading on plastic covers for ATV seats. Additionally, light scratches can be removed using 1500 Grit Wet Sandpaper, followed by a coat of plastic restorer and polish to restore the shine.
For a more involved but longer-lasting solution, one can sand the plastic with fine sandpaper, progressing from low to high grit, and then apply a vinyl floor liquid wax with a car wax applicator. This process requires multiple thin coats, buffing the plastic after each application, and finishing with an automotive wax for extra sheen.
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Sanding and waxing
Sanding:
Start by removing any skid plates and racks that are drastically damaged and need replacement. Then, give the ATV a thorough cleaning using a mixture of dishwashing liquid and water to remove grease and oils from the surfaces. Make sure to dry the ATV completely after washing.
If there are scratches on the plastic surface, you'll need to sand those areas. It is recommended to use fine sandpaper, starting with a lower grit and working your way up to a higher grit. You can start with 1500-grit wet sandpaper for light scratches and then move to 320 grit to smooth out the plastic. Continue with 400, 500, and then 600 grit to further smooth and refine the surface. Use plenty of water during the sanding process to prevent the plastic from getting burnt. Always sand in the direction of the scratches, never in a circular motion. You can use an oscillating tool to speed up the sanding process.
Waxing:
After sanding, it's time to prepare the plastic for waxing. First, ensure that the plastic is completely dry. Then, apply a liquid wax designed specifically for plastics, such as vinyl floor liquid wax or a dedicated plastic restorer product. You can also use boiled linseed oil to restore faded plastic, but it takes a long time to dry, so consider mixing it with paint thinner to speed up the process.
Use a car wax applicator to apply thin coats of wax to the plastic, working on one section at a time. Apply several coats, buffing the plastic after each application with steel wool or a buffer. For an extra layer of shine, finish with an automotive wax.
Remember to wear gloves during the sanding and waxing process to ensure your safety.
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Linseed oil
To restore ATV plastics with linseed oil, first clean the ATV. Then, use a dry cloth to apply the linseed oil to the plastic. The oil will remove the oxidization that is causing the plastic to fade. After you have coated all the plastic, let it dry for a full day. If you keep your ATV covered and don't use it daily, the restoration should last for a few months. However, if you use your ATV outdoors frequently, you may need to reapply the linseed oil every 4-6 weeks.
While linseed oil can bring back some colour to dull plastics, it is not a permanent solution and may not be the most effective method. It can make the plastic look oily, and everything may start sticking to it, making it look dirty. Additionally, linseed oil restoration is less complex than wax restoration and may not last as long.
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Spray paint
There are a few things to keep in mind when using spray paint to restore ATV plastics. Firstly, it's important to work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety goggles, to avoid inhaling paint fumes or getting paint in your eyes. Additionally, it's crucial to mask off any areas you don't want to get painted, as spray paint can be difficult to control. If you're painting over a previous paint job, you might need to use a paint stripper or thinner to remove the old paint first and ensure a smooth surface for your new paint.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use linseed oil, a plastic restorer, or a Plastic Renew kit.
First, clean the ATV with a mixture of dishwashing liquid and water to remove grease and oils. Next, sand the plastic with fine sandpaper, starting with a low grit and working your way up. Finish by sanding with steel wool. Then, apply a wax or plastic restorer to the plastic.
To remove light scratches, use 1500-grit wet sandpaper. Then, apply a small amount of plastic or metal polish in a circular motion with a clean, dry cloth.
