Window Care

The transparencies (aka windows) in the RV-10 kits are made of Plexiglass and are very easy to scratch. Here are some tips and tricks.

Inspection

Consider removing all of the protective wrap when receiving the transparencies from Van's (you should receive the rear windows and windshield in the fuselage kit and the door windows in the finishing kit). If you do this, you can then re-install new protective wrap; Collision Wrap is recommended. All you need to do is stick it onto the plexiglass and then use a razor blade to trim the edges. It doesn't need to be super flat or anything and it will look pretty much like it did when you received it from Van's again.

Cleaning

As recommended by Van's and the manufacturer, use only mineral spirits and a clean rag to clean the windows. Even simple things like painter's tape will leave residue on the windows but mineral spirits will take it right off.

Scratches

It's possible to fully remove scratches from your Plexiglass, but note that this process will cause some slight visual distortions especially for any sort of deep scratch. If you can catch your fingernail in the scratch then you'll be unable to remove it and preserve perfect optical properties. Therefore, consider the location of the scratch before trying to remove it.

The process below uses the Novus kit. It's also much easier to use a power buffer or polisher.

The scratch removal process consists of sanding and then buffing the window with more and more fine-grained material. The deeper the scratch, the more likely you are going to want to start at the top of the list. For very fine scratches you want to start in the middle of the list. It doesn't hurt to start in the middle and then try again starting higher on the list if you don't like the results. Work your way down the list from your starting point to the bottom.

• 800 or 1000 grit wet sandpaper (start here for deep scratches)
• 1500 grit wet sandpaper
• 2000 grit wet sandpaper (start here for very light scratches)
• 4000-6000 grit wet sandpaper (optional)
• Novus #3 (with power buffer/polisher)
• Novus #2 (with power buffer/polisher)
• Novus #1
• Mineral Spirits

If you get done and things aren't perfect, repeat the process and try again. You may be able to start lower in the list on your second time through. Can you still see the scratch? Then you'll need to start pretty high. But if the scratch is gone and the window is just kind of hazy, then you may be able to start with Novus #3.