Return to Hobie.com
Hobie Forums
It is currently Thu Apr 18, 2024 4:34 pm

All times are UTC - 8 hours [ DST ]




Post new topic Reply to topic  [ 4 posts ] 
Author Message
 Post subject: AI faded finish
PostPosted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 8:04 am 
Offline
Site Rank - Captain

Joined: Mon Nov 13, 2006 11:25 am
Posts: 41
Location: ROANOKE, VA
Has anyone tried to use a heat gun to restore the finish of a AI or TI?

I have an old Windrider 16 that has this problem and found by accident while removing some scratches that the application of heat seems to brighten the finish again. I'm currently looking at an older AI that is red and faded. Any guidance will be appreciated.


Top
 Profile  
 
 Post subject: Re: AI faded finish
PostPosted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 9:33 am 
Offline
Site Rank - Old Salt

Joined: Sun Apr 26, 2015 3:13 pm
Posts: 656
You can use a propane torch to try to restore sections of the finish. Practice on a section that doesn't show first. You need to use a very light touch and be very careful, but improvements can be made.

For red finishes, I've found that the application of Aerospace 303 Protectant works wonders for restoring the color and it lasts a long time. Try that first.


Top
 Profile  
 
 Post subject: Re: AI faded finish
PostPosted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 4:00 pm 
Offline
Site Rank - Captain

Joined: Mon Nov 13, 2006 11:25 am
Posts: 41
Location: ROANOKE, VA
Thank you for your reply. I've used an electric heat gun on a couple repairs to my Windrider. The heat isn't as intense as a torch and a bit easier to control. It's also a slower process so the likelihood of doing damage is reduced. I think I have part of a spray bottle of the 303 somewhere in a cabinet. I'll pull it out and give it a try. It'd be quicker and easier than heat for sure.


Top
 Profile  
 
 Post subject: Re: AI faded finish
PostPosted: Mon Jun 25, 2018 6:34 am 
Offline
Site Rank - Old Salt

Joined: Sun Apr 26, 2015 3:13 pm
Posts: 656
I never tried a heat gun, I suppose it could work.

My 2015 red TI looks incredible when coated with 303. It usually lasts several weeks. When it wears off it looks dull, but it's been like that since day one. Except for when I'm on the water, I keep in stored indoors and there is no UV damage. 303 is one of the few products you can use on plastics that make it shine.


Top
 Profile  
 
Display posts from previous:  Sort by  
Post new topic Reply to topic  [ 4 posts ] 

All times are UTC - 8 hours [ DST ]


Who is online

Users browsing this forum: Google [Bot] and 2 guests


You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum

Jump to:  
© Hobie Cat Company. All rights reserved.
Powered by phpBB® Forum Software © phpBB Group