what to use on black plastic?

Poorboy said:
this question and the answers to be given need more information :hmmm:

are we talking about smooth hard plastic or are we talking about grainy trim?

for smooth hard plastic, a non-abrasive polish is the way to go, if we are talking about the grainy trim then a dressing like Trim Restorer as mentioned previously would be my choice ;)
Click to expand...
Steve your post just may explain my problem.
I put TR on the door handles of my explorer and it looked good until it rained and then I had ugly streaks down all 4 doors.
The TR had been on for several days before it was rained on so it was dry.
Since then I been using it for interior panels were it stays dry.
 
For best results you really should clean the plastic well prior to applying any trim dressing. We use GR-40 and Vapor steam in our shop.
When plastic is extruded they add a little wax to help release the piece from the mold. Over time the wax starts to migrate to the surface giving a dull faded look. Just washing with soap and water does not remove this.
I'm sure most here have seen the plastic on the Chevy avalanche trucks. This is the best example.
Adding your trim dresing to a somewhat porous plastic gives these waxes an easy way to migrate or wick up to the surface.

Clean it, correct it and then protect it.
 
I've read about and considered the GR-40 product for a long time now, but have always managed to talk myself out of it, opting instead to continue using an APC diluted solution and a medium stiff brush and then an IPA wipedown before applying the dressing.

Is the GR-40 product that much of an improvement? Why or how?

Interesting also the use of a vapor steamer. I never used mine and now mine is down and I am gun-shy about putting @$400 into another.

What dressing are you using for darkening the trim pieces.

Oh yeah, and I completely agree with the Avalanche comment and can add the Honda Element to that example.
 
Personally We think it works better then an APC.

We use Optimum's Protectant Plus on a rare occasion Black Wow.

Really old trim we will die it with Trim a Shield.
 
Ron Harris said:
Personally We think it works better then an APC.

....
Click to expand...

Seeking further clarification...What dilution rates were you using with your APC? If I understand it correctly, the GR-40 is used at full strength and is not dilutable. And I am unclear as to how much product is required (I know it depends on how much trim is to be cleaned). At @> $100/gallon it sounds like it could be an expensive option vs. an APC even if the APC is used at full strength, which I don't.
 
We use Optimum APC at 1 to 1
The GR 40 is quite effective and doesn't require a lot of product. A gallon would last a year in our shop.
We generally spray it on a brush and scrub. Larger areas spray directly and scrub. The scrubbing action will generate a good lather.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top