How to Clean Lexan? Need a Clear Answer

[Entlie]

A couple of years ago we replaced eight deadlights on Sunspot Baby with Lexan, which is factory tinted (not coated).

We have been very careful with these windows, haven't used any chemicals when cleaning them. However, they are cloudy, and becoming moreso. We bought some "Plexus" at West Marine, a spray can at a big price, followed the directions exactly, and see no difference.

Any advice? Thanks in advance

Entlie
Sailing Catamaran Sunspot Baby

[Entlie]

Dug around in a locker and found two bottles of old 3M Clear Plastic Cleaner and Clear Plastic Restorer. The combination of the two has made a big difference.

Back to West Marine to see if they'll take back the "Plexus" and buy more of the 3M stuff.

Entlie
Sailing Catamaran Sunspot Baby

[sailvayu]

Hard to go wrong with the 3M products, they cost more but worth every penny. Sounds like you found the right stuff.

Fair winds

[bstreep]

This is the real problem with Lexan. Next time, go with cast acrylic. What strength Lexan has over acrylic is gone after a few months in the sun.

[Christian Van H]

After you get them polished, use 3M 303 aerospace to protect them. It will help...

[LuvToSail]

AR Lexan is the type of Polycarbonate that is suggested for use on as port glass...this type is more expensive but is UV resistant and Abrasion Resistant

I have heard that the cleaner for headlights on cars (which turn yellowish) can be used on plastic ports but I can't remember if it is for polycarbonate or plexiglass?

[barnakiel]

I used a spray whitish milk from a major marine supplier with some effect.

Surprisingly, when we used something called Autosol (intended to clean SS from yellow spots) ... we got our lexan dome to nearly perfect condition.

However, the dimmed condition returned very soon.

b.