Any pointers on cleaning up faded plastic bike panels

Picking up a second hand Honda 125 scooter next week after it's been MOT'd. I've viewed the bike and it's fine apart from the side plastic panels being faded, presumably by the sunlight on them. Looked about the net regarding respray etc. and that's an option: albeit using rattle cans. Wondered if anyone has used products that could possibly bring back a bit of the original shine without spraying? I'm not expecting miracles but so many products about and promising the earth but would appreciate real on hands opinions. Thanks

Have you got any pics? If they're painted you my be able to cut the clear coat back and reapply. A vinyl rap may also be an option.

I watched an episode of Shed & Buried where they basically scraped the bleached layer off to reveal the original colour underneath, could be worth looking into before coating.

Can be done with a heat gun if its this type of trim

https://youtu.be/R9tDq1oRy9U

I have also used gtechniq c4 which lasts around 1yr

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Thanks chaps. I pick the bike up tomorrow so will ponder my options. It's a gloss red finish that looks a little metallic as well so probably not red all the way through but painted on. Might try something to take back the lacquer and see how that goes.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by beansontoast

I watched an episode of Shed & Buried where they basically scraped the bleached layer off to reveal the original colour underneath, could be worth looking into before coating.

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Bit of a long shot but this is going to be on telly in about five minutes or less on the travel channel. It is series 2 episode 7 if you want to look it up later.

Well, I picked the bike up other day and spent quite a bit of time the weekend tarting it up. Didn't have to really but I do enjoy farting about like that lol. After a lot of research and watching YT vids I got in a few more unusual products along with T-cut colour fast and Turtle wax. First was warm water and washing up liquid for an overall clean. Then I cleaned various parts with screwfix 'No Nonsense' degreaser, after that, a 50/50 mix of boiled Linseed oil and white spirit on the grey trim... took a couple of days to dry out proper but end result was ok. Seat was done with some Armoral semi matt protectant, this took quite a few layers but it's getting there. Colour fast red on the painted panels in layers over a couple of days and then the turtle wax for a few layers as well.

Wheels were cleaned with Mr Muscle oven cleaner and cold rinsed/ brushed off with some elbow grease. Exhaust was cleaned with Harpic max 10 toilet cleaner, washed off and fine sanded a little, washed and wiped the sanding off and sprayed with Rustoleum BBQ high temp paint.. about 4 layers letting it dry between each one. Took some panels off to get at the main frame and sanded a few areas that had a little surface rust then painted with Hammerite smooth black - doesn't have to look pretty as you can't see it but helps in the long run.

Next session will be the engine casing as it's looking a bit grimey but overall, pleased with the results so far.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e3...526_143314.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e3...527_180354.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e3...529_184659.jpg