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General => Cosmetic and bodywork matters => Topic started by: acma on 22 March 2009, 18:34

Title: refurbing old mk1 bumpers
Post by: acma on 22 March 2009, 18:34

Anybody tell me the best way/method of refurbing the old plastic bumpers, they're very dis-coloured and need of some TLC...

Any advice/info greatly appreciated.

Title: Re: refurbing old mk1 bumpers
Post by: Thom89 on 23 March 2009, 19:27

Quote from: acma on 22 March 2009, 18:34

Anybody tell me the best way/method of refurbing the old plastic bumpers, they're very dis-coloured and need of some TLC...

Any advice/info greatly appreciated.

If the bumpers have turned grey, and should be dark grey/black, then it is possible to bring them back to life, using a hot air gun. you need to heat the plastic to the point that its on the verge of starting to melt! PRACTICE on the inside of the bumper first though!
You'll notice that as the plastic gets hot, it will start to go shiny, and return to the original colour. Start at one end of the bumper, slowly working your way to the other, then finish with suitable bumper dressing product
Your other alternative is to paint then....
Tom

Title: Re: refurbing old mk1 bumpers
Post by: acma on 29 March 2009, 18:23

Cheers Tom,

Thanks for the help.....  :laugh:

Title: Re: refurbing old mk1 bumpers
Post by: Sc00bysnack on 02 April 2009, 21:09

Might give that trick a try myself  :laugh:

Title: Re: refurbing old mk1 bumpers
Post by: Thom89 on 03 April 2009, 00:32

It works! but you need practice and balls, as soon as you start to see the plastic "Change" its time to back off, and move on, it really is about technique to get an even finish, without shiny spots..
Good luck!
Tom

Title: Re: refurbing old mk1 bumpers
Post by: avengedslayer on 04 April 2009, 15:10

could that cause the paint to bubble or distort if it gets too hot?  :smiley:

Title: Re: refurbing old mk1 bumpers
Post by: Thom89 on 04 April 2009, 21:46

Quote from: avengedslayer on 04 April 2009, 15:10

could that cause the paint to bubble or distort if it gets too hot?  :smiley:

This for textured plastic bumpers only, those found on early MK1s and small bumper MK2s ie, black plastic.
and definitely NOT painted bumpers! :wink:
Tom

Title: Re: refurbing old mk1 bumpers
Post by: eightyeightmph on 06 April 2009, 16:12

Didn't think the heat gun trick lasted long? Doesn't it fade back to worse than before in a short time?  :huh: