Question has anyone restored the clear targa top on a C5?

[JJVG]

I just recently restored my factory clear Targa top. I used Emery wet dry paper. Started with hand sanding using 220 to get the coating off then 400, 800, 1000, 2000. Always sand in opposite direction its easier to see when you get the previous sanding scratches out. Then 3000 grit on an orbital sander. Then I used headlight compound with a compound pad on my polisher, then finished it with Maguiar's polish. I started sanding before I thought to take a before and after. The worst part was the left side where I already sanded. Anyway I was ready to throw it out now all I need is a protective layer against UV and I'm good to go. Any thoughts on a good protector?

 

[Rruuff Day]

I just recently restored my factory clear Targa top. I used Emery wet dry paper. Started with hand sanding using 220 to get the coating off then 400, 800, 1000, 2000. Always sand in opposite direction its easier to see when you get the previous sanding scratches out. Then 3000 grit on an orbital sander. Then I used headlight compound with a compound pad on my polisher, then finished it with Maguiar's polish. I started sanding before I thought to take a before and after. The worst part was the left side where I already sanded. Anyway I was ready to throw it out now all I need is a protective layer against UV and I'm good to go. Any thoughts on a good protector?

I've used the cheaper Krylon UV resistant clear coating on my antique fire hydrant restorations and it seems to hold up well but for the long term not sure. AIT make a more industrial use coating but have never used it. They advertise "lifetime" if that means anything.

UV Resistant & Blocking Protection Coatings - AI Technology, Inc.

www.aitechnology.com

 

[OL Yeller]

I just recently restored my factory clear Targa top. I used Emery wet dry paper. Started with hand sanding using 220 to get the coating off then 400, 800, 1000, 2000. Always sand in opposite direction its easier to see when you get the previous sanding scratches out. Then 3000 grit on an orbital sander. Then I used headlight compound with a compound pad on my polisher, then finished it with Maguiar's polish. I started sanding before I thought to take a before and after. The worst part was the left side where I already sanded. Anyway I was ready to throw it out now all I need is a protective layer against UV and I'm good to go. Any thoughts on a good protector?

Great job.

 

[Riley P]

That is awesome! I’d be crazy nervous about doing this, unless the top was to the point where I’d be throwing it out anyway if it didn’t turn out. But that looks fantastic!!!!
I heard a good UV protectant is some good ol black paint.
but on a more serious note, I tried Wipe New on some lenses I had. The strong smell of the stuff made me think it should work and it did work ok, but I think it actually left marks in my lenses.
For a top (and if I was ok with spending some money), I’d ask a body shop about the UV blocking properties of clear coat paint.

 

[JJVG]

Thanks for your kind words and I will look into those products & ideas and let you know what I chose to do.