Removing scratch from acrylic aquarium

[sfboarders]

I just made a big long scratch on my acrylic aquarium. I found this product which has good reviews. Any other products or recommendations on how to remove scratches? I will not be emptying my tank when trying to remove the scratches. I think I'm going glass for sure for the next tank.

 

[zepplock]

I never attempted to buff acrylic tank with water in it.
You could try regular sandpaper, then fine sandpaper then novus 2, novus 3. IF novus is reef safe and that's a big IF.

 

[iCon]

People have used Novus with no apparent/obvious side effects to their reef tanks. *shrug* I'd imagine if you rinse the heck out of it after using, it should be ok...Use some sort of neutralizer, vinegar or something else...

 

[Roc]

If your not going to drain the tank and if your gonna use that kit (which does work) you don't use any polish compound, Novus is not safe for a active reef.


Get ready for some rediclously hard work

 

[iani]

It does work. I've used that kit in the past. It will get it to the point that it looks clear with water in the tank a bit hazy without water in the tank. Its actually not that hard to use.

 

[sfsuphysics]

*sigh* typed a long winded explanation, then for some reason hitting shift plus some key (I don't know what) caused the browser to "go back"... and of course everything I typed was gone when I went back forward... I hate this site sometimes *sigh*

 

[tuberider]

I've used that kit many times in the past with water in the tank and have had good results, just follow the directions carefully.

 

[GreshamH]

I've used that kit as well. I just buy the micro mesh on it's own now, but the kit does work

 

[xcaret]

I've used that kit as well. I just buy the micro mesh on it's own now, but the kit does work

Where do you buy the micro-mesh? I find the kit to be useful but if the product can be acquired in a "bulk" sort of way might as well jump to buy several sheets.

 

[GreshamH]

http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=9930

Rockler Woodworking and Hardware
541 Contra Costa Blvd
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

There are a TON of places that sell it online, but, if you want a local place Rockler has it.

 

[tuberider]

Regarding wet applications, I have never used Novus YMMV though

 

[sfboarders]

I found some 1500 wet/dry in my toolbox from my car painting days... I was able to sand the deep scratches out.

Looks like they sell the Novus at Tap Plastics for cheaper than online and it's local. I'm thinking I need the Novus 2 & 3 and I should be good to go? Should I just apply it with a microfiber cleaning cloth?

I also like the micromesh also because there are no chemicals added to the water. You guys know where I can get this in the peninsula/city area? I found this kit online.

 

[sfsuphysics]

Tap's sells fine grit wet sand paper too... granted it's not all cuddly nice like the cloth backed micromesh (which FYI is really sandpaper).

 

[sfboarders]

So just wanna make certain that you guys were able to use Novus in the water without draining the tank to the level of the scratch?

 

[Elite]

You can't use those. Just use the pads. They work but a lot of hard work depending on how bad the scratches are

 

[Mr. Ugly]

What Phong said.

Don't use Novus unless you empty your tank.

 

[Roc]

If your not going to drain the tank and if your gonna use that kit (which does work) you don't use any polish compound, Novus is not safe for a active reef.


Get ready for some rediclously hard work

quoted to answer latest question

 

[tuberider]

It's actually not that bad IMO, although take that with a grain of salt, I've glassed more surfboards than I can count, now that's difficult and tedious sanding.

 

[Roc]

It's actually not that bad IMO, although take that with a grain of salt, I've glassed more surfboards than I can count, now that's difficult and tedious sanding.

Can you come over and do the inside of my tank...LOL

 

[sfboarders]

I'll probably just use the Novus for the outside of my tank and just use sandpaper/micromesh for the inside (while still full of water). I've sanded a bunch of cars in my time and also have done some repairs to my surfboards so I'm up for a challenge.

Thanks everyone!