Windshield scratch removal

[Jay Bunt]

Has anyone attempted and succeeded in removing fine scratches from their windshield? I'm not that good with a buffer etc! I would like to attempt it myself, but may have to leave it to the experts.

Jay

[Juliet P.]

Terry McManmon posted something...

...a while back about removing scratches from his side windows. I would guess that the same procedure would apply to a windshield also. The one thing you should consider however is the refraction through a thin spot in the windshield, and whether or not it might make things look a little warped. At any rate check the archives for the discussion. Based on the notes I kept, you might try 29 October 2000 for the thread. ~Juliet

[Chuck S.]

Re: Windshield scratch removal

Jay,

Eastwood sells a windshield polishing kit that is supposed to remove the fine scratches produced by your windshield wipers. I have never tried it, so I can't give you first-hand experience. The litmus test for removable scratches is your fingernail should not hang on the scratch; if your finger nail catches on the scratch, then this kit won't help. Click on the Eastwood website address shown below.

Chuck Sangerhausen


Eastwood Plastics/Glass Repair

[Terry M.]

Re: Windshield scratch removal *TL*

Chuck,

I know that is what Eastwood tells you, but don't believe it. The real issue is how much you want to invest in equipment (the exact speed is important as is a comfortable polishing machine - too heavy or out of balance will risk poor or worse results) and how much patience you have. Deeper scratches take longer and risk distortion. It is very slow going and CAN NOT be rushed. It is also not the kind of task one would want to pay someone hourly rates to do. No one will do it as carefully as you.

Terry

[Jay Bunt]

Re: Windshield scratch removal

The scratches aren't that bad. They all pass the fingernail test.

Juliet, Chuck, Terry; I will wait until I need some serious therapy before getting into this one. I agree whole heartedly, patience is key. Thanks for your time and the "Smiley Face".

Jay

[Gary S.]

Re: Windshield scratch removal

I am one of the people that asked that question several months ago. I got answers from no to absolutely. I then contacted a friend who told me to contact a friend who worked for Corning Glass. He got me the stuff I needed do it and it can be done. It takes time. Must be careful not to overheat the glass and not put in more scratches than you are taking out. Must keep the powder wet at all times. Basically I started with aluminum oxide which is course and then cerium oxide which is finer. I just used my 3/8th drill and a 5 inch pad. The other secret was the use of three different pads. I have no clue what each one was called except they went from firm to soft (polishing).

Deep scratches can be removed also. I tested this on an old piece of glass with a deep "X" scratch in it. I got impatient and used 400 and 600 sandpaper on the scratch first then the powders named above. Takes lots of time!!!!

[Jay Bunt]

Re: Windshield scratch removal

Gary,

Thanks for your help.

Jay