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Thread: Polishing scratches out of windshields?

  1. #1
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    Polishing scratches out of windshields?

    I recently picked up an older (early 70s I think) Sigla clear windshield that was a take out at the dealer. It's in excellent shape (no pitting whatsoever) but does have a few scratches that are neither deep nor casual.

    I've been told about a product called Rare Earth by Sommaca that will remove these.

    anyone ever done this? technique? equipment? other products? also heard of using toothpaste.
    Tru6 Restoration & Design
    69S Targa, Velvet Green
    73T Coupe, Gemini Blue
    Early S Registry #1462

  2. #2
    Senior Member t6dpilot's Avatar
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    Shaun, I think the Rare Earth is a brand name for Cerium Oxide. That is what glass shops use to take out minor scratches. I am currently looking for a local supplier to get this from, but you can google it and get numerous suppliers online.
    Scott H.
    1969 Coupe LtWt
    1973.5 911T

  3. #3
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    Thanks Scott, cerium oxide added to the search.
    Tru6 Restoration & Design
    69S Targa, Velvet Green
    73T Coupe, Gemini Blue
    Early S Registry #1462

  4. #4
    I am very interested in learning about this, the technique, results and risks.

    I went onto hightechglazing.com and typed in cerium oxide. I found it, but do not know if this is the product you guys are referencing.

    Let's keep this thread going as I think it could be an asset to all 911 S Registry members.

    John
    John

    Early 911 S Registry member 473
    RGruppe member 445

  5. #5
    Some new information. After some web research, I contacted Caswell Plating (caswellplating.com) as they sell a cerium oxide kit that includes a drill mounted buffing pad.

    They advised that this will work very well for scratches that are not very deep. For deeper scratches, they advised I should start with an 800 grit sandpaper used in a circular or orbital motion. It is probably best to do this application on a low speed drill. They then advised to go to a 1000 grit paper using the same motion. After that, they advised to use the cerium oxide with their buffing pad. They claim it will come out great.

    I am fine with the ceriium oxide use, but the sandpaper idea scares me a bit.

    Has anyone done this?, and what was the result?.

    John
    John

    Early 911 S Registry member 473
    RGruppe member 445

  6. #6
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    Great info John, thank you! I think I've got at least one spare windshield that is "junk". Might be a good use of it to scratch and then test sanding. I've worked with 500 and 1000, 1500, 2000. I think I would skip the 800 and just start with 1000.

    Lot on my plate these days, something to look into in February.
    Tru6 Restoration & Design
    69S Targa, Velvet Green
    73T Coupe, Gemini Blue
    Early S Registry #1462

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