Yellow plastic windows

[bgosh]

I have a garden tractor enclosure for snow blowing that the plastic is discolored (yellowing/foggy) that I would like to clear up if possible and was wondering what I could do to help with this? Thank You Stan

[fredhargis]

Not much, I suspect. Replacing the plastic would be about the only solution I think (which probably isn't cost effective).

[Robert Adams]

The best thing is to replace it but there is a method that will restore the color to most plastics. It's caused by he bromine in the plastic and sunlight.

The simplest method that usually works is to use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide oxygen clean and a thickener like xanthan gum to create a paste. Coat the plastic keep it wet expose it to uva light and scrub it with a brush. This will usually work on solid plastics. Never tried it on clear but it's worth a try.



I want to get an enclosure like that for my mower too but I need a small airconditioner....

[Russell R]

Used this to clean plastic windows on the dodger of the boat I used to have...worked really well.

web page

[Howard Acheson]

I would try using some of the stuff sold to clean plastic car headlight covers. Go to an auto supply store and take a look at it.

[Woodenfish]

Is the yellowed window made of clear vinyl or is it acrylic plastic sheeting?

[bgosh]

I am not sure what it is .The only thing I can say for sure is that it was bent and is about /4 in. thick Thank You Stan

[Woodenfish]

I would experiment using an automotive paint rubbing compound, polishing compound, liquid ebony with foam polishing pads on a high speed buffer. Keep it in motion and don't allow the plastic to get hot.

[Cooler]

In 1969 my two year old Alfa Romeo's rear windows got yellow and cloudy.

I took some Gleem toothpaste, diluted it with a bit of water and polished out the scratches. It stayed clear until it started to crack and then I had it replaced.

Newer plastics have UV inhibitors that make them last longer. I would guess that any fine rubbing compound would work. The toothpaste was all that I could find back then and it worked fine (and had a nice minty smell too. )