Minor Scratch and Abrasion Removal
Minor scratches and abrasions can be removed or reduced by using the
following procedure. Take precautions in order to prevent distortions of
vision. Double vision may result if an attempt is made to remove deep scratches.
Deep scratches should not be removed from an area in the driver's line
of vision. In such cases, replace the glass.
The following procedure was developed using a cerium-oxide compound.
Follow the manufacturer's directions if other materials are used.
Recommended Equipment
| • | A low-speed (600-1,300 RPM) rotary polisher |
| • | A wool-felt rotary polishing pad 7 mm (0.275 in)
in diameter and 51 mm (2 in) thick |
| • | Powdered cerium-oxide mixed with water (the abrasive compound) |
| • | A wide-mouth container to hold the abrasive compound |
Polishing Procedure
- Mix at least 44 ml (1.5 oz) of cerium-oxide with
enough water in order to obtain a creamy consistency. If the mixture is too
thick, the mixture will cake on the felt pad more quickly. If the mixture
is too runny, more polishing time will be needed.
- Draw a circle around the scratches on the opposite side of the
glass with a marking crayon or the equivalent.
- Draw a line directly behind the scratch in order to serve as a
guide for locating the scratch while polishing.
- Cover the surrounding area with masking paper in order to catch
the drippings or spattered polish.
- Dip the felt pad attached to the polisher into the mixture Do
not submerge the pad or allow the pad to stay in the mixture as this may loosen
the bond between the bad and the metal plate.
Notice: Never hold the tool in one spot. Never operate the tool on the glass
longer than 30 to 45 seconds. Let the glass air cool before proceeding further
if the glass becomes hot to touch. Cooling with cold water may crack the heated
glass. Avoid excessive pressure. Excessive pressure may cause overheating
of the glass.
- Use the following steps in order to polish the scratched area:
| 6.1. | Stir the mixture as often as needed in order to maintain the creamy
consistency of the compound. |
| 6.2. | Use moderate, but steady pressure. |
| 6.3. | Hold the pad flat against the glass. |
| 6.4. | Use a feathering-out motion. |
| 6.5. | Dip the pad into the mixture every 15 seconds in order
to ensure that the wheel and the glass are always wet during the polishing
operation. A dry pad causes excessive heat to develop. |
| 6.6. | Keep the pad free of dirt and other foreign substances. |
- After removing the scratch, wipe the area clean of any polish.
- Clean the polishing pad.
