Plast X and Convertible Window

[Andrew C.]

Hi there, I know that there is 17 and 10 and 18 available for cleaning plastics, but all I have is Plast X. My neighbor wants me to try to clear up their BMW's rear convertible window that is plastic. Will Plast X work fine without scratching it all up (I don't see why it would). Wet sanding would not be a good idea on these windows correct?

[new2detailing]

Re: Plast X and Convertible Window

Do not wet sand!!!!!PlastX should be fine.

[BlueZero]

Re: Plast X and Convertible Window

Do not wet sand!!!!!PlastX should be fine.

Test a small area.

[Mike Phillips]

Re: Plast X and Convertible Window

PlastX is actually the best product for what you want to do, just make sure the window is clean as in washed or wiped clean first so there's not dirt or contaminates to rub over the plastic which would scratch it, and make sure you use a soft and clean applicator pad and wiping cloth.

Remember, it's not just the product you're using but also the application material and the wipe-off cloth that are both factors that you have to be mindful of as well as working clean.

[Andrew C.]

Re: Plast X and Convertible Window

PlastX is actually the best product for what you want to do, just make sure the window is clean as in washed or wiped clean first so there's not dirt or contaminates to rub over the plastic which would scratch it, and make sure you use a soft and clean applicator pad and wiping cloth.

Remember, it's not just the product you're using but also the application material and the wipe-off cloth that are both factors that you have to be mindful of as well as working clean.

Alrighty thanks guys. So as long as I make sure there are absolutely no dirt or contaminants on the window I should be fine. Mike, would you suggest using the circle foam applicator pad or the (i believe microfiber) rectangular pad (I picked up two from the bin at the last open garage that you said were free). I don't know if it matters, but does circular motion work better or does side to side motion work better?

I remember reading a post from you (mike) somewhere that plast x can remove ??? grit sandpaper and so I am fairly positive that it won't scratch as long as the surface is clean and plus you said so hahah.


Thanks, Andrew

[Mike Phillips]

Re: Plast X and Convertible Window

As for pads.. either or... the ones we give away at Thursday Night Classes are used applicator pads that have been washed and dried and we recommend them for applying dressings so you don't have to use a brand new applicator pad to apply a dressing and thus can save your brand new pads for working on paint.

They're clean and there shouldn't be any problems but we go through so many pads that we give the clean/used pads away when they build up.

As for circles or straight lines... from Hot Topics

Circles or Straight Lines?

If you’re using a non-abrasive product with a high quality, clean, soft foam applicator pad, and you’re working on a clean surface, then it shouldn't’t matter which direction you move the applicator pad over the finish because nothing you’re using will be instilling any scratches or swirls into the finish.

The above being true, then some panels lend themselves better to straight line motions, while other panels lend themselves better to circular motions.

Examples:

Circular Motions
Most people find it’s easier to apply products in circular motions to large panels like the hood of a car. The reason for this is because circular motions act to help you spread your product out over large areas for more even, and thorough coverage. Some people also feel that circular motions help you to better work products into the finish. One thing for sure, moving your applicator pad in a circular motion tends to feel natural, and appears to come natural to most people. (Hand a wax applicator to 10 people and ask them to apply some wax to the hood of a car and stand back and watch how they apply the wax).

Straight Line Motions
Without good technique, applying products using straight-line motions is more difficult on larger panels. Straight-line motions are just as easy to use as circular motions, (and sometimes easier), on small panels and panels or sections that are longer in one direction while narrow in the other direction. Some times the panel itself will determine which direction you will apply your product.

An example would be the painted pillar on the side of the windshield on my Blazer.



Common sense tells you, (as well as the actual application of a product), that it will be easier and more efficient to use straight-line motions versus circular motions to apply a polish or wax to this thin, narrow painted section, than it will be to use circular motions.

The key thing to remember is this,

If you’re applying non-abrasive products, i.e. products that do not scratch or scour the finish, and your applying them with a soft, clean applicator and using good technique, then you should not be instilling any scratches or swirls no matter what direction you’re moving your hand.