how to fix scratches in plastic

imjustdamngood · 07-17-2005, 01:53 PM

is there anyway i can fix scatches that are in plastic? Do they make some kind of bondo or filler for plastic that i can use and then paint over it?

rjspitz · 07-17-2005, 07:18 PM

Depends on what you scratched. If it is something like the black plastic mirror housing, you can heat it with a heat gun. When it's warm enough that it is able to be distorted, press on some 80 grit sandpaper to get the desired texture. On a smooth piece of plastic, do the same but with a smooth object.
I don't think you'll be able to find a paint that will match the plastic color. You'll have to paint the entire piece after you fill the scratch.

Better yet, replace it. Plastic parts on vehicles are fairly cheap, so this can be a good option. Then modify the old one to make a one-off part and put it back on the truck!!

imjustdamngood · 07-17-2005, 08:34 PM

actually its for my 2000 polaris sportsman 500 that i just bought. its got some scratches on it that i would like to remove plus i really want to paint it red and black.

rjspitz · 07-17-2005, 09:18 PM

If the scratches aren't too deep, just sand smooth. Then clean the entire surface with a quick wipe of 3M plastice cleaner, or carefully with a paper towel just moist with acetone. Then you can paint it with spray paint.
Don't know if you've painted plastic with spray paint before, but regular spray paint and plastic don't play well together. Krylon makes a product called Fusion. It has a solvent that 'melts' the top layer of plastic, which causes the paint to fuse with the plastic. I've used this stuff several times on my motorcycle body work. No peeling to speak of. Don't use primer or you'll prevent the fusion.
If the scratches are too deep to blend with light sanding, you can use the process in m first post to 'rework' the plastic. If they are still too deep, you can get a plastic welding kit from Harbor Freight to fill in the scratches. The type of plastic can be determined by looking on the inside of the part. They usually mold it into the piece. It's probably some type of PVC.
I wouldn't recommend body filler. It will not adhere properly to the plastic and will eventually start to peel off. Especially with the amount of vibration and flex on a snowmobile.

Good luck.