The Diecast Zone · Model Car Club Since 1997
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Topic starter
05/04/2020 2:10 pm
Windshield and Headlights.......any fix for Yellowing?
I found another FM 1959 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible among my "needy" cars......this one has a yellowed windshield ..... same with the headlights...cleaning didn`t yield any results at all......is there maybe a chemical process to return these pieces to their original clear state?
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05/04/2020 2:29 pm
I do have the same question for our experts, plus how old is this car?
Topic starter
05/04/2020 3:04 pm
at least 20 years old
The onsite review of this model,written by John Sharisky,is dated (08/10/1998)
here are my pair.....the smashed windshield version on the left
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maybe the key to clarity is smashing the windshield 😐
05/04/2020 3:34 pm
What caused the windshield and headlights to turn yellow? Was the car constantly in the sun? I've never seen that on any die-cast.
George Schire
Oakdale, Minnesota
Topic starter
05/04/2020 3:44 pm
I don`t have first hand knowledge of the cause.....
but the pattern and density of the yellowing certainly suggest exposure to sunlight
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05/04/2020 4:51 pm
the sunlight does make sense but I have a one never out of its box in the basement -bad glass
05/04/2020 11:45 pm
There is a fix to remove yellowing of plastic headlight lenses.
However this applies to 1:1 scale or full size cars.
It maybe a long shot when it comes to model cars and a try out on a wreck would be strongly advised, especially the windshield.
On my car, a Nissan, I used 2000grit wet sanding. This removes the yellow layer.
Wash, dry and apply polish cream with a soft cloth like you would on the cars bodywork. Wipe off the now dry polish. The headlight lenses will now be nice and clear with no sign of yelow.
Now, to make a long lasting job from your efforts, spray the headlights with automotive clear coat from a spray can.
Job now done.
06/04/2020 3:47 am
Topic starter
06/04/2020 4:17 am
thanks for the suggestion Bruce.....
your tip,plus the one that followed has given me hope for a clearer future:D........I have some Micro-Mesh Sanding Sheets around here somewhere.....crazy small grits......and reading your procedure reminded me of how Bruce floor wax can lay down a smooth gloss.....
Topic starter
06/04/2020 4:22 am
Thanks Barry knowing the windshield can snap out is invaluable !!!!!.........your method of leaving the polish sit for 10min each time makes me wonder if your particular toothpaste has a whitening agent in it......what is the brand/product name of your toothpaste please?
06/04/2020 4:51 am
Colgate total toothpaste
Topic starter
06/04/2020 4:55 am
got it.......Thanks Barry
Topic starter
06/04/2020 6:19 am
Mine`s done....it was a snap!!!
I should`a never left my job at the rock quarry ...... brittle aged plastic vs ham fingers :((
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Ahhhhhh well....they`re off to a better place now....the fabled Cadillac Ranch......nothing to do all day long but guzzle premium octane and chase Fords 😐
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06/04/2020 8:41 am
That bad news