The film on my headlights has started to become visible, and I have read about people buffing this off with an an orbital. I've buffed the lights by hand, and the shine only lasts a week or so, then starts to show again. I need to pull out the 'big guns' on 'em.

 

have you used any polish to buff the headlights? i used maguires metal polish for the headlights, and then a light layer of wax. that should keep the headlights clear for a while.

 

I have the 3M plastic cleaner and the plastic polish. It works for a while, but then goes back to the way it was... That's why I wanted to try a power tool, heard that fixes it for good.

 

I have a new one... Do you have any pads? I have some pads from a while ago that still have some life in them but I am unsure as to their cutting power.

 

No, I don't have any pads... that's the problem. I have a cheap buffer, but can never find pads for it, so it's useless!

 

If you have alot of time, I recommend 400,600,800,1000,1200,1500 grit sand paper to remove the damaged and oxidized layers of the plastic. Then finish it off with 3m plastic polish. I believe this is what it's call but it will successfully remove 1500 grit sand paper. It's a really ugly job, but once you get going and the grit gets finner, you will start to see a brand new layer of plastic. Once done, it should look like brand new.

 

the sand paper thing sounds like a good idea. but how long is that going to take?

 

All day... like any good project

 

Shannon- I think I live down the street from you (RPQ). I have a PC and some throw away pads if you want to borrow...

 

PM me if you're going to be in Encinitas, I've got a Makita buffer that should do the job real well.