Headlight restoration... success

[g35_coupe]

Well, my neighbor`s g/f let me do her Jeep`s headlights for free since I`m just starting out and still experimenting. I tried some 600 wet/dry and it wasn`t even scratching the surface (no pun intended). Knowing my arm would fall off before any progress was made, I ran to Home Depot for some coarser grit (150/220/300). I wasn`t able to get all of the crazing out but the major damage was eliminated. I followed up with the 600/1500/2400/PB SSR 3/Diamondite Plastic Enhancer/Spar Urethane Mix. I had to remove the first application of the Urethane because it would not self level correctly but the second attempt came out pretty good. On the driver`s headlight, I was rushed so I have some sanding marks from the first few grades of sandpaper. A little more time and I could`ve come out like glass. Overall, I`m very happy with the passenger light. I`m sure the neighbor and his g/f are happy compared to what they looked like before and won`t mind the sanding marks. After all, it was FREE. From start the finish, it took about 3 1/2 hours. 30 mins was to Home Depot and about another 30 mins spinning my wheels with the initial 600 grit. :mad: Anyways I`ll let the pics speak for themselves and any input is appreciated....



http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u118/bigd2k6/DSC03886.jpg

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u118/bigd2k6/DSC03893.jpg

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u118/bigd2k6/DSC03887.jpg

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u118/bigd2k6/DSC03890.jpg

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u118/bigd2k6/DSC03885.jpg

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u118/bigd2k6/DSC03888.jpg

[todd@bsaw]

Results look excellent. What is that Urethane mix you use and what research have you done on it (Spar Urethane Mix)? I`ve been looking for a good UV blocking finish to headlight restoration.

[whis9]

That is a major improvement, how much time you have invested?

[g35_coupe]

Results look excellent. What is that Urethane mix you use and what research have you done on it (Spar Urethane Mix)? I`ve been looking for a good UV blocking finish to headlight restoration.



thanks. It is Spar Urethane sealer and mineral spirits mixed 1:1. Many people have tried it with excellent long-term results. If applied correctly it will level and create a nice glossy layer. It`s only my 4th attempt at using it but first time actually doing it on someone else`s vehicle besides on of my own cars.




That is a major improvement, how much time you have invested?



It was about 3 1/2 hours from start to finish on this job but could have been significantly reduced had I had the correct grit sandpaper.

[NMDetailer]

Can anyone fill me in on the steps necessary to restore headlights like that?



i know i can buy a kit and follow the instructions, but what if I want to use my own technique? what exactly needs to be done and in order to restore headlights thoroughly like that? Thanks guys!

[g35_coupe]

Start by wet sanding with something coarse enough to remove your damage. Gradually move to a finer grit in cross-hatch patterns until sanding marks are almost completely gone. Use whatever polishing compounds you choose and seal with glaze or urethane mix.