The 1:18 model slid off the table and fell; I wasn't able to grab it before or while it fell to the ground. Anyway, it got a white scratch in the plastic window. Is there a procedure to minimize the scratch to be nearly invisible? It's not a deep scratch--mostly superficial. I would rather not have to replace the window if that could be avoided. Any replies would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

- Ceicei

Damn, that is a real bumper!
As far as fixin' it, I don't 'ave a clue on what would actually work, I've a few idea's to try, but seein's 'ow you've only got one shot at it, I'll not say nuthin'.
But that is such a bumper, I 'ate when I drop stuff.


:dude:

Well, I vaguely recall some years ago some guy mentioning sanding the scratch then putting on some type of a polish? That is supposed to make the scratch disappear? Has anyone heard of this way? Will it work with the model plastic windows? I would think using a sandpaper would make it worse, but I suppose it would depend on the grit of the sandpaper.

If anyone is familiar with this procedure, would you please explain how it is done and what materials are used. Thank you!

- Ceicei

I 'member 'earin' sumtin' 'bout that. If I 'member right, need'd sum damn fine, like 2000 + grit, but I don't know for sure if that is gonna give ya the result ya want, an I sure don't want ya tryin' sumtin' I ain't sure of an mess it up more.


:dude:

I've used Mother's Mag/Aluminum polish on plastic gauge cluster lenses to buff scratches out. It takes some time and elbow grease but it does work. It might work for this but I'm not sure.

Doesnt future floor wax/polish fill in those scratches?

Sorry to hear about that Ceicei, but it could be worst....it could have broken. What I use for removeing scratches from clear plastic is Novus Plastic Polish (http://www.noscratch.com/novus/) It comes in mainly 2 grades one for fine scratches and one for deeper scratches. You can find it all over the net as well as alot of retail outlets such as Tap plastics. I use it mainly to restore vintage turntable dustcovers. It's never let me down yet. Semi Chrome polish will also polish many types of plastics, but I have never used it on clear plastic. Now You may think this crazy but I have known people to use toothpaste to polish clear plastic. You have to use the paste toothpaste not the gel stuff and it does take a bit of elbow grease, but alot of people swear by it....why? I don't know why, espeacialy when there are so many other alternatives out there.

I've also heard that Future floor polish when brushed on a scratch will make it disappear, haven't actually tried it though. I do know that in most cases regular ol' Brasso will take most scratches out of hard plastic windshields. Test it on the edge or somewhere that won't be noticed and it will either melt it slightly or polish it. I've used it dozens of times and only had it soften the plastic once. Good luck.........:wave:

If it's a deep scratch, you'll have to sand it out (800 grit minimum, 2000 grit for finishing). If the scratch isn't deep, or once you sand it smooth, toothpaste or GS-27 work great. These will leave almost invisible swirl marks, and you might want to call it a day. If you really want to go all-out, Future will hide the swirl marks and give it a truly glassy look.

I've cleaned up dozens of windows, it really works wonders.

If it's a deep scratch, you'll have to sand it out (800 grit minimum, 2000 grit for finishing). If the scratch isn't deep, or once you sand it smooth, toothpaste or GS-27 work great. These will leave almost invisible swirl marks, and you might want to call it a day. If you really want to go all-out, Future will hide the swirl marks and give it a truly glassy look.

I've cleaned up dozens of windows, it really works wonders.

If it's as superficial as you stated, Future should do it with minimal effort. If possible, remove the windshield and dip it in a Future bath. This way the whole windshield will get an even coat. I have rescued many windshield from models this way with great results. :thumbsup: rr

Thank you for your suggestions. I'll decide on what to do with the scratch and let ya'll know how it goes.

- Ceicei

I can just see CeiCei now, with five different unimportant experimental cars lined up in front of her that she has intentionally scratched, so she can test all these methods before using one on her wonderful project car. :drunk: Good luck, CeiCei!

That's a damn'd good idea. :)


:dude: