Catalina 34

General Activities => Main Message Board => Topic started by: Bob K on September 07, 2006, 04:07:39 AM

Title: Dodger vinyl window cleaners / restorers
Post by: Bob K on September 07, 2006, 04:07:39 AM
The vinyl windows on our dodger are getting hazy and hard to see through due to age (and some neglect in regular cleaning).   I  would like to try one of the cleaners / restorers that are made for this purpose  - I've seen a few at Boat US and auto parts stores.  Some are called cleaners, some are called polishes, and others are called restorers.  Does anybody have any recommendations?
Thanks
Title: Re: Dodger vinyl window cleaners / restorers
Post by: Ken Juul on September 07, 2006, 04:59:20 AM
I have good luck with the Meguir's products.  They make a couple of them for cleaning the windows.  Can't remember which one I am currently using.  Don't use anything with alcohol (windex) it's bad for the plastic.
Title: Re: Dodger vinyl window cleaners / restorers
Post by: Craig Illman on September 07, 2006, 06:54:25 AM
While not a cleaner, I try to use 303 Aerospace Protectant almost monthly on my dodger to protect the vinyl from UV. I doubt it will resurrect things for you but you might try it with the other cleaners suggested.

Craig
Title: Re: Dodger vinyl window cleaners / restorers
Post by: Mike Denest on September 07, 2006, 08:13:09 AM
We had the same problem so we used the Meguir's cleaner first then the polish.  It took lot's of elbow grease but it got the job done. 
Title: Re: Dodger vinyl window cleaners / restorers
Post by: Momentum M on September 07, 2006, 01:13:11 PM
Bob...I've used this product on my previous boats ans still using it on my latest one.  See the link below and you'll find different product and the use.  They are not that expensive so maybee you want to try a few!!!

Good luck

Serge

http://www.meguiars.com/estore/product_list.cfm?sectionname=Boat/RV%20Care>Clear%20Plastic%20Care&sectionID=58101
Title: Re: Dodger vinyl window cleaners / restorers
Post by: Craig Illman on September 07, 2006, 04:44:31 PM
Serge -

I just followed the link you sent and have a question. Have you used the polish on your hatches? My forward hatch above the V-berth has a lot of fine scratches. I was considering replacing the lens, but this would certainly be a cheaper and faster solution.

Craig
Title: Re: Dodger vinyl window cleaners / restorers
Post by: Ron Hill on September 07, 2006, 06:44:31 PM
Bob : I use a product called "NOVUS".  It's especially made for the plastic windows and sold at most canvas places the make dodgers etc.  To find the dealer closest to you call (800)548-6872.  It comes in 3 differant grades  - #1 for cleaning; #2 for light scratches and #3 for heavy scratches. 
Hope this helps.   :wink:
Title: Re: Dodger vinyl window cleaners / restorers
Post by: John Langford on September 07, 2006, 08:13:24 PM
I second Ron's recommendation.I use Novus for sheet burns on the dodger windows and the cleaners are very good. When I get the lens clear I use 303 regularly as suggested.
Title: Re: Dodger vinyl window cleaners / restorers
Post by: ssk on September 07, 2006, 10:33:30 PM
You might try PLEXUS..
http://www.plexusplasticcleaner.com/plexus.html
West Marine carries it.  I find it the best thing yet for dodger vinyl and for plexi ports.
Sid