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Headlight restoration problem?

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Old 05-31-2013, 09:25 AM
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Originally Posted by GravyRobber
Over a year old, I know, but...wow...that looks better than new.

I plan on doing this today or this weekend, but I have no experience with a buffer. I do have access to one, however. Is it possible to buy the pads and compound locally? I don't have any of them, but would really like to do this as a weekend project if at all possible.

Also, the buffer i have is huge, would it be better to use a drill with an attachment?

Thanks for any input!

Here is what I'm dealing with..



Does the buffer you have access to have any pads? a backplate already? 6 inch, 3 inch, etc?

I have a griots DA polisher with 6 inch pads. It's big, but it will work on my headlights. I used a drill and yes you could buy an attachment like meguairs ball. I made it easy on me and just zip tied a MF to the drill and went at it with PlastX. It turned out pretty damn good. People always forget to put some UV protection on their headlights after this procedure. Don't forget to or you'll be in the same situation again.
Old 06-01-2013, 07:34 AM
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Well, I went ahead and did it kinda my own way and it seems to have worked quite well.

I wet sanded starting with 1000, then 1500, 2000, and finally 3000. Then, I used some headlight restoration pads with a drill attachment to polish to a shine, then finished off with PasticX.

They look crystal clear, so I hope it holds up. I still haven't decided what to do for UV protection. I might spray some clear coat on them, or just get some vinyl covers for them.
Old 06-01-2013, 08:29 PM
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i can never ever find 3000 grit, so i just do 1500, 2000, then m105/m205, followed by plasix and some Blackfire sealant
Old 06-02-2013, 06:12 PM
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Here are my results. You can see that the passenger-side headlight still has that scratch, but its significantly smaller, and much less noticeable. It is smooth to the touch, so I'm thinking is might be an internal stress crack of some sort. Anyways, on to the pics:







Now for the next project...the front bumper...
Old 06-13-2013, 02:18 PM
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Are you guys using some kind of power tools with this? Or just hands?
Old 06-13-2013, 04:00 PM
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Hand sanding, but using a porter cable buffer for polishing
Old 06-13-2013, 07:26 PM
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I always recommend 3m clear vinyl afterwards. It will keep those newly polished headlights looking good for years
Old 06-14-2013, 12:36 PM
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spar urethane/mineral spirits for a factory like long-term finish...
Old 06-16-2013, 02:19 PM
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Originally Posted by jst2878
I always recommend 3m clear vinyl afterwards. It will keep those newly polished headlights looking good for years
...with a good possibility for crazing.
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