I picked up a fairing off ebay the other day. If the light hits the black plastic
you can see "rub" marks, like maybe from some tie downs or something.
I was thinking maybe some rubbing compound applied by hand may take it
out. I also have a power buffer, but I'm afraid that may cut into the plastic
to much.

Anyone have any suggestions as to what kinda compound to use or any other ideas
to try and remove the rub marks.

 

Don't use rubbing compound. The particles in it are too corse and will leave scratches. I wouldn't use a power buffer unless you've got a lot of experience with using one. I use this product for removing scratches and other blemishes. It works great and doesn't leave any scratches.

http://www.meguiars.com/?auto-paint-cleaners/ScratchX

Oh yea, it's available at Wal-Mart.

 

thanks, I will try and pick some up this weekend. Do you think it would work on a headlight by chance?

 

I got some stuff rom the auto parts store just for clear plastic pieces.It works really well! Especially on a windshield!

 

You guys have any exp w/a product called flitz's polish ? I got turned on to it at the oshkosh air show. Made for plastics, clear or othrwise. They were hawking it as a windshild polish, but it works great on all plastics. Not real gritty or anything, but will remove light scratches/scuffs (and some color, if you get too agressive !)

 

Ive used FLITZ alot, its an excellent product, but I'vealways used it on aluminum and chrome.(old school chop) never thought to try
it on plastic and stuff. I got a tube of it out in the garage, I'll check that out too.

 

Rubbing compound will definitely dull your finish but may be a first step if you have deeper marks. Even your average polishing compound is a little too abrasive.. might be a good 2nd step after the rubbing compound. For the final polish or for very light haze, I use a product (quart size) from a auto body paint ship. Cant remember the exact name but they usually have the word "glaze" in the name. With this, you can get a hazed out windscreen to look new. Might be Mcguire MirroGlaze or somthing close. You can use your power polisher for this, just wash out the bonnet good in the sink and use a lower speed. Doing it by hand is about 10 times slower.