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Cleaning UTV Windshields: Lexan® MR-10 (MARGARD® II) polycarbonate
May
Cleaning UTV Windshields is Easy. While Lexan® polycarbonate is one of the toughest materials on the market you can extend it’s life by regularly washing it using correct procedures. Also this article covers the manufactures recommendations for care.
Manual Cleaning Instructions For Cleaning UTV Windshields:
1. First rinse off all dirt, bugs, etc… off with water or mild soap before ANY wiping takes place. Make sure all sand, grit or sharp debris are removed so you won’t scratch the windshield.
2. After debris is removed, gently wash windshield with a solution of mild soap and lukewarm water. Use light long strokes as opposed to circular motions. A small bucket of clean water with a tablespoon of common dishwashing soap works great. Avoid chemicals or cleaners which contain alcohol or ammonia, like common household window cleaners or automotive rain repellents. These chemicals may damage the MARGARD™ coating.
3. To finish rinse with clean water to remove any cleaner residue and dry the surface with a soft cloth to prevent water spotting.
Lexan® Manufacturer Recommendations for Cleaning UTV Windshields:
• Never use abrasive or highly alkaline cleaner on Lexan® polycarbonate materials.
• Never use aromatic or halogenated solvents like toluene, benzene, gasoline, acetone or carbon tetrachloride on Lexan® polycarbonate materials.
• Use of incompatible cleaning materials with Lexan® sheet can cause structural and/or surface damage.
• Contact with harsh solvents such as methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) or hydrochloric acid can result in surface degradation and possible crazing of Lexan® sheet
• Never scrub with brushes, steel wool or other abrasive materials
• Never use squeegees, razor blades or other sharp instruments to remove deposits or spots.
• Do not clean Lexan® polycarbonate in direct sunlight or at high temperatures as this can lead to staining.
• NEVER tape a Lexan windshield, it removes the protective covering and can leave a mark.
How to clean paint or other chemical spills on my windshield?
If something gets on the windshield such as paint, grease or glazing compounds, they can be be best removed while fresh–before they dry. Fresh splashes can be removed easily before drying by rubbing lightly with a soft cloth using petroleum ether (BP65), hexane or heptane. Afterwards, wash the sheet using mild soap and lukewarm water.
**For all mentioned chemicals consult the manufacturer’s material safety data sheet (MSDS) for proper safety precautions.