clean body cladding?

J

jvcn

New member
Can't seem to get a clear answer on this with the Search.



How do you deal with the lower body cladding? The car has a lot of dirt/mud specks on the lower grey cladding (behind the front tires at the bottom of the doors). The dirt seems stuck into the plastic and neither a wash, nor clay, nor vigorous scrubbing seemed to get it off.
 
Yeah, I would try some tar remover with a fine bristled brush. Then go over it with some 303 (or your favorite vinyl protectant).
 
I haven't tried using a PC on it yet although I tried using Sonus Paint Cleaner by hand with a terry applicator after washing, claying, and an alcohol wipe. I feel like you basically have to scrape the mud flecks which have been embedded into the cladding a long time ago but don't want to damage surface too much. I tried scraping one fleck and it left a small gouge.
 
I've had great success using Mr. Clean's Magic Eraser (as per directions) on textured plastic, then dressing with your favorite plastic protectant.
 
If this is painted rocker panel that wraps into the wheel well ( like my car) I found that a good tar remover and or an all purpose cleaner works the best if you let it dwell for a minute or so and then use a soft brush (or pressure washer) to gently remove the debris. I like to use a good sealant on these spots to minimize future cleanups. Also if you dont have a pressure washer you can do it at one of the do-it-yourself places.
 
When I think body cladding, I think Chevy Avalanche. Is this the case?



I've had good luck with a good APC (think Simple Green diluted a bit), then right after apply a protectant.



Z28GSXRTim: Check the link in my Signature :cool:
 
I'm assuming what you have is texured black plastic cladding. You definitely want to try the mildest cleaning method available and then work your way up to harsher cleansers. Plastic cladding can be damaged by harsh chemicals and agressive scrubbing. Since you've already tried some of the milder solutions already, you may want to move down the list. You may also use a soft bristled brush with any of the steps. Never used anything other than a soft bristled brush or you will scratch the plastic. Never let any cleansers dry on the plastic.



1) Car shampoo with hot water.



2) GM makes a cladding cleaning kit which is GM PART # 89020818. You can order it online here by entering the part #:

GM Parts Direct

or you can get it from a GM dealership but it will probably cost about $10 more and they may have to order it.



3) Dawn liquid dish soap and hot water mixed to a strong concentration (5:1).



3) SONÃœS ALL-IN-1 (Total Auto Cleaner)

Personally I've never used it, but it looks promising if it lives up to it's hype (I've found Sonus products usually do). Mix it full strength according to directions.



4) Buy a steamer like the ones Wal-mart sells. You definitely need to be careful because steam CAN get hot enough to melt plastic. This one should be safe to use:

Scunci SS1000 Steamer Cleaner System



5) Eagle one A2Z. This stuff should definitely NOT be used on a regular basis because it will eventually wash away parts of the chemicals that you need to remain in the plastic.
 
Heavy dilution of an all purpose cleaner such as meguiars or hi intensity seem to work best for me on plastic cladding...



also use a stiff brush
 
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