Headlight hazing/polishing question

[robin2660]

I've been reading quite a bit around the innanetz regarding polishing and think I can do it properly. My questions are:
1) Whether to buy a kit, or just buy the bits separately. Which is more cost effective?
2) If a kit, which is best one?
3) One thing I haven't found good information on is after-polish sealing. Apparently, the haze comes back on these jobs after some months, requiring repetition. I've read that these are treated with an expensive UV-protective coating in the factory. I did find one link, Bayer International that discusses such treatment aftermarket (vs replacement) but I haven't yet found a source for the material. http://www.bayermaterialsciencenafta.com/processing/cas/uv/applications.html
So, what do you guys recommend as a protective coating that will prevent or delay re-hazing?

BTW, this is for my GFs car so I really can't screw it up! ;-)

Thanks.

 

[robin2660]

Seems this would be of interest .... I guess everyone on here knows all about it? If so, I'd like some opinions, please.

 

[Bluemica3.5]

I really like the mothers headlight kit. Used it once works great and have a few other people that use it to Good stuff

 

[kitkit201]

I used the Plastic-X from Megellians. Works great with elbow grese, applicator and a microfiber cloth to wipe it off.

 

[robin2660]

Is the Plastic X just a protectant? Does it have UV protection? I just searched for that product and can't find anything (spelled Magellan and Magellian).

I'm hoping to replicate the clear-coat that's applied at the factory.

 

[kitkit201]

Is the Plastic X just a protectant? Does it have UV protection? I just searched for that product and can't find anything (spelled Magellan and Magellian).

I'm hoping to replicate the clear-coat that's applied at the factory.

This is it

http://search.yahoo.com/r/_ylt=A0oGdbbcvWNP7RMArhlx.9w4;_ylu=X3oDMTE0anJ2ZmY0BHNlYwNzcgRwb3MDMgRjb2xvA3NrMQR2dGlkA01PQjAxM184MQ--/SIG=12unj78bo/EXP=1331965532/**http%3a//www.amazon.com/Meguiars-PlastX-Plastic-Cleaner-Polish/dp/B0000AY3SR

Works like a charm but you do have to work a lot of the liquid into the headlights.

 

[02MazdaProDX]

I always used to wet-sand my hazed headlights with a super super fine grit sandpaper and some rubbing/polishing compound with just a spritz of water. Sounds harsh, but it really isn't. Honestly.

First, I would spritz water onto the headlight & sandpaper, then add some rubbing/polishing compound and go slow in a circular motion for a few mins, rinse, and repeat if needed. Next, I would just use a buffer to shine them back up, and they always looked brand spanking new! I've never had a haze come back either =] Good luck!

Stay Young.

 

[robin2660]

Finally settled on the Sylvania kit. It has all the stuff to sand and polish plus a UV protectant.

 

[11B-33T]

late reply but would you comment on the process and take before/after pics?

 

[robin2660]

Too late, Grumpy. I started the other day but I had to interrupt the process before applying the sealer/protectant since GF had to go and the sealer needs several-six hours to cure before driving, but I'll try to take after pictures when I finish this weekend.

I'd say the hazing was moderate. Here's a good representation: http://www.clublexus.com/forums/es300-and-es330/556578-diy-polishing-the-ole-headlights.html Here's an official video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvdiiXfvkD8

Right now the headlights are pretty clear though I might apply rubbing compound some more before sealing as I noticed some light scratches remaining .... I wonder if some superfine steel wool might make it even smoother?

As an afterthought, the Turtle Wax restoration kit looks to do a good job and is half the price.

 

[robin2660]

Here's the end result. Make sure you completely cover with sealant; applying more after leads to smeared sealant. I missed a tiny spot on the corner of one headlight and I was more concerned with protection than cosmetics so I added more. It's barely noticeable but you don't want to have to reapply. I suspect spray application would be superior to wiping but you have to find a source for the stuff (which smelled like varnish).

In my opinion they look brand new and well worth the trouble ....

 

[11B-33T]

Nice job and thanks for the follow-up pics! Would you recommend going with this brand based on ease of use, results, and price?

 

[robin2660]

It's very good ... ultimately time will tell how the sealant/protectant holds up. The video link I found for the Turtle Wax version looks to do a similar job but for half the price - might be worth investigating that one also. I suspect any of them are good as long as they include sealant/protectant. Sandpaper, rubbing compound are easy to source. The only thing I'm not sure of replicating would be the sealant.

Anyway you slice it, $20 for the Sylvania version is inexpensive. As I said, Turtle Wax version is $10 locally. As mentioned, and as you can tell from the pictures, they look like new again!

 

[zoomzoom mazda5]

Been using Opti-Seal on mine since 2006 and no hazing at all.