Restore white plastic?

**NuthinFancy** · 03-13-2016, 08:26 AM

There's tons of info about black plastic but how can I restore white plastic that has yellowed? I have seen some hobby type info about soaking parts in a solution that sounds straight out of the Anarchist's Cookbook but I don't think it's appropriate in this situation

**LEDetailing** · 03-13-2016, 08:53 AM

Originally Posted by NuthinFancy

There's tons of info about black plastic but how can I restore white plastic that has yellowed? I have seen some hobby type info about soaking parts in a solution that sounds straight out of the Anarchist's Cookbook but I don't think it's appropriate in this situation

I would look at reprinting that (RV?) trim. I would look around for a quality automotive plastic spray paint. Also, make sure to prep the plastic if you do go the painting route.

**NuthinFancy** · 03-13-2016, 09:59 AM

lol- when I saw the first sentence, I thought you meant using a 3d printer.
Soon to come: "How I got snockered on my first "pro" gig."

**LEDetailing** · 03-13-2016, 10:41 AM

Gotta love autocorrect

. Funny thing is that the 3D printer probably could produce a usable part. Good luck

**BillE** · 03-14-2016, 07:45 AM

RV's use two different 'whites'.

A "polar white"-that is 'white'. The other 'white' (who's name fails me) is what you are seeing on that unit. The reefer vent is 'polar' whereas the stove vent is the other white.

When they are new, the color difference isn't too bad. Then add sun and weather, etc...they just become more yellow.

Nuttin' you can do, it's just the 'wrong' color. It is frustrating to say the least.

Bill

**NuthinFancy** · 03-14-2016, 03:29 PM

They used to use the same stuff on cheap dishwashers and other appliances trim. ABS plastic?

**BillE** · 03-15-2016, 07:45 AM

ABS...I honestly don't remember.

Was gonna look at some old RV/Boat catalogs, but looks like they've all gone to paper heaven. Maybe contact a local RV dealer and ask 'em.

Bill

**oldmodman** · 03-16-2016, 09:03 PM

I had that problem on a trailer I bought. The white plastic vents were white and chalky.

I removed them from the trailer and took them into the kitchen. Scrubbed them with a brush and Comet.

Then painted them with
Dupli-Color HVP105 Gloss White High Performance Vinyl and Fabric Spray

Still looks fine after five more years out in the sun and weather.

Once they get chalky they have to be painted.