We have a 2002 Bailey PAgeant Auvergne. I've noticed the last couple of seasons that the front panel has lost its sheen, and become matted, almost porous.
I've poured the best quality car polish into it, which has improved matters slightly, but its only a temporary fix.
I've noticed some hairline cracking in the capping aswell.
Any tips on how to reseal/repolish/renovate the panel??
BTW, I used Fenwicks for the first 5 years of owning this 'van. But I also used to tow with a smokey old TDI, I always thought the soot was the problem, but it seems more widespread now.
Would T cut do the trick? My DH used this on the wheel arch plastic bits on our van they were very dull and scratched and they have come up fabulous. You could maybe try a little spot by they edge so that it isn't noticable.
Find your nearest yacht chandlers & buy some fibreglass cleaner/renovator, its specialy made to renovate & clean boat hulls & once a coat of wax is applied to the cleaned fibreglass you'll need your sunglasses on to look at it! works a treat!
PS they also sell special 12v buffing & polishing machines which takes all the effort out of it!
------------- GeorgeB
I'm a Grumpa....its just like being a Grandpa..only grumpier!
We're a bit short of Chandlers in Leeds these days...our last one is now trendy wine bar...
Nonethelss as we pass thro' Plymouth on our way onto the Santander ferry, I know there is Chandlers on the approach road. I'll try for the 3M fibreglass polish and renovator, and I'll let you know how it goes.
I dont think much will restore it to its former glory. Apparently, fibreglass deteriorates with a condition called osmosis, where the bonding breaks down. The previous owner of my ,van ahd the cover repainted for me,, and it seem to have lasted well. There are several proprietory makes, I use the one that was left for me by the double glazing firm, to clean upvc.
Osmosis only affects boats or fibreglass thats emersed in water & the tell tale signs of osmosis are blisters on the fibreglass that weep water, so highly unlikely to affect a caravan...................
------------- GeorgeB
I'm a Grumpa....its just like being a Grandpa..only grumpier!
I recently decided to tackle this on my 1997 elddis. Its front was very dull quite rough to touch. Firstly I used ajax cream cleanser to remove a few stains and clean the panel up. I found it best to do this when the van is dry and not add any water! Only use water to rinse well afterwards.
Then I used alot of elbow grease and lots of "MER" polish. I gave it about 2-3 coats.. took me about 3 to 4 hours to do it properly but now the front shines like new! I am very pleased with the results and would say its well worth the time and effort involverd.
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Topic: Aged Fibreglass front panel
