Polycarb discolouration?

[Paul in NZ]

I've noticed a LOT of late model cars running about with badly yellowed polycarbonate headlamps. In some cases I'm sure it would have to be a wof issue?? And those headlamp units can be deadly expensive too...

That got me thinking about motorcycles. Most new bikes have these plastic headlights and while they probably spend more time (on average) under cover than a car, this surely is going to be an issue in a few years????

Is there any way to protect them?

[nzspokes]

I've noticed a LOT of late model cars running about with badly yellowed polycarbonate headlamps. In some cases I'm sure it would have to be a wof issue?? And those headlamp units can be deadly expensive too...

That got me thinking about motorcycles. Most new bikes have these plastic headlights and while they probably spend more time (on average) under cover than a car, this surely is going to be an issue in a few years????

Is there any way to protect them?

Go see my mate Herman, he can fix them. Easy and quick. When I was at his workshop a Subbie came in with that problem. 1/2 hour later all fixed. see my bike polishing thread.

[baffa]

The yellowing is due to air/water/whatever getting beneath the outer polished layer of the headlights. Unfortunately the plastic is still slightly pourous. You can remove it by cutting it back, a little sanding will do the trick, but then you need to use some plastic polish or similair to protect the lights so it doesnt happen again.

No big drama.

[ducatilover]

Polish them with toothpaste. Or buff 'em with toothpaste Works for me and smells nice

[nodrog:Me]

You can use brasso to buff them back to clear. Then just rub them with pledge every now and again to keep them shiney.

[iYRe]

what baffa said..

bit of cut and polish and its sweet..

[Paul in NZ]

Well oil be darned - clever lads. Might try that on miss Vickis Caldina tail ligh (not that she would nothice its looking a bit dull)

[iYRe]

I had to do it every time I got a WOF on an old mazda capella I had.. if I'd pledge'd it, might not have had to do it so often

[onearmedbandit]

Yup happens to a lot of cars on our yard, mostly Euro's but a few Japanese cars as well. They save headlights from stone chips but need a cut back and polish every 12mths give or take. Much cheaper than replacing headlights.

[jasonu]

see my bike polishing thread.

Post the link please

[onearmedbandit]

Post the link please

Click on his name, click on profile, then click on 'Find latest started threads' down the left side of the screen. You'll find it there.

[Mooch]

From a repco dealer near you

[shafty]

Hi, what everyone is telling you is purely buffing and it comes back.

There is a new company just started that has a one time use product that removes all the build up and replaces the protective coating on the lens - it's guaranteed for the life of the lens, they usually do the whole job but may send the product to you.

Ttry 0800HEADLIGHTS or 021 1204792. I have seen some of the before and afters and it is very very good

Shafty

[Pogo2]

My car is real old and used Autosol and elbow grease.
Almost as good a new (sort of). Now the yellow is all gone.

Rub and walk away!!