Surface Scratches

[bbraud6]

Anyone have an idea on what to use to remove surface scratches on hood of deere 3320 compact tractor which is plastic. These are just surface scratches from limbs etc. Maybe compound wax ? Anyways just curious if anyone has had any luck, and what did they use , thank's......

 

[k0ua]

I have never done this so use this idea at your own risk:

I have used Brasso to remove scratches in watch crystals. which are plastic. Now assuming the green color is molded in and I think it is you could try rubbing Brasso on the scratch and see it if makes is "all better"
I would try in an inconspicious area first to be safe. It does take a lot of rubbing, or you could use an orbital polisher perhaps.

James K0UA

 

[glc24]

Now assuming the green color is molded in

It is not.
To the best of my knowledge it is black,at least on my 2520 it is.
Got too close to a guy wire and took it down to bare plastic.

I'm also curious to know what would work,as I have a couple from branches.
Wax worked a little,but they are still visible.

Greg

 

[grsthegreat]

They sell colored waxes at auto parts stores...but im not sure if they come in green. Ive used them on black plastic and they work great. Ive seen them in whites and blues also.

 

[XP14629]

The plastics are covered with what is referred to as a gel coat. This has it's own clear coat. For very minor scrathes some 3m brand rubbing compound and a variable speed buffer do a nice job. Talk to your local auto body or paint supplier for this. Anything deeper and I have always had to just mark off at the body lines and sand the entire panel. Then paint and clear. Unless looking closely it is hard to see the difference. You could also talk to a fiberglass repair place or a boat shop.

 

[bbraud6]

Thank's for the suggestions, will try a compound wax first as these are slight scratches from pushing trees through a briar patch.

 

[Brad_Blazer]

Buy Turtlewax Rubbing Compound (10.5 oz.) T230A at Advance Auto Parts

 

[psdx]

I saw a reference to rubbing compound. I would try polishing compound first. The abrasive properties of common materials from least to most are wax, polishing compound, then rubbing compound. My point is that polishing compound will put less trauma on the finish if it will work. Rubbing compound may dull the finish.

If you use rubbing compound you want to use polishing compound afterward to get the shine back all the way, followed by wax. I have found a product called X20 to work well on minor scratches.

Also, the original post doesn't say, but if you can catch your fingernail on the scratch, that part will not go away using this method.

 

[beenthere]

So far (includes last 16 years), I've found trying to do anything just makes it worse. Dulling and not being able to get the shine back is more noticable than the original scratch. I am hoping someone has the cure and we can all get rid of our scratches.

Unlike the old car finishes that some buffing compound and a buffer would buff those scratches out.

 

[psdx]

I've had excellent success cleaning up light scratches. I think the key is lots of patience and not rushing to get to something too abrasive. I have fond that a lot of elbow grease with X20 or polishing compound does amazing things. You just have to really persevere. That being said, not all scratches can be removed this way, so sometimes I don't attempt it due to prior experience.

 

[grsthegreat]

this is from a john deere sire on gator maintainance

liner. See your John Deere dealer.
Cleaning Plastic Hood and Body Panel Surfaces

IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Improper care of machine plastic surfaces can damage that surface:
Do not wipe plastic surfaces when they are dry. Dry wiping will result in minor surface scratches.
Use a soft, clean cloth (bath towel, diaper, automotive mitt).
Do not use abrasive materials, such as polishing compounds, on plastic surfaces.

dont know if it will work....just relaying what i read here

http://manuals.deere.com/cceomview/omm161938_k0/Output/OMM161938_K012.html


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1. Rinse with clean water to remove dirt and dust.
2. Dry thoroughly to avoid water spots.
3. Spray PLEDGE onto hood and surfaces and leave on for 30 to 60 seconds.
4. Wipe off with cheesecloth to bring out lustre.

also

http://www.greenfarmparts.com/John_Deere_All_Purpose_Polish_p/ty16169.htm

​

 

[beenthere]

I use pledge, but that is to polish and bring out the shine after a wash job.

However, I haven't found it to remove surface scratches like the OP described.

What is the X20 product?
A brand name would help. Google doesn't bring it up for my entry of 'X20' or 'X20 polish'

 

[psdx]

Sorry, it's Meguiar's X2.0. I forgot the decimal.

 

[MMagis]

Scratches can not be buffed out of plastic. Some people referring to things that work for them most likely have painted plastic, but some of you will have laminated plastic, or even colored plastic. Small scratches in paint can be buffed out, but any scratches in the plastic itself are there for good.

 

[beenthere]

Sorry, it's Meguiar's X2.0. I forgot the decimal.

Thanks. Looks like worth a try.

 

[Jamming]

Griots garge products make a plastic polish and scratch remover kit. There products are well tested and very high quality. I would call Them before you try anything.

 

[bbraud6]

Okay thank's.

 

[beenthere]

Griots garge products make a plastic polish and scratch remover kit. There products are well tested and very high quality. I would call Them before you try anything.

I did find it.

Car Care, Detail Supplies, Garage Organization, Car Accessories - Griot's Garage 800-345-5789

 

[B E Lewis Farms]

Guys, This is not a Gator that he is working on it is a tractor. What is in the gator manual does not apply. This tractor has a plastic hood with painted or Gel coated finish in which scratches should be easily removable with the use of quality automotive detailing supplies.

 

[Boeing]

I respectfully suggest that MMagis is incorrect. Scratches ARE removable in plastic. One of the first posters suggested Brasso for watch covers. TOOTHPASTE also works well....very mild abrasive.
In plexiglass Aircraft windshields (plastic) we used MIRRORGLAZE. That is still available on E-bay and works WONDERS.
Take your time and repeat until scratches are gone....or down to black plastic base