restoring plastic parts on electric tools

[tom coffey]

I have a Makita router and a couple of other power tools that I would like to clean up/restore. The plastic housings & handles have the usual scratches and scuffs. How's the best way to smooth out the plastics? Very fine sandpaper then polish? I don't want to paint if I can avoid it. Thanks.

 

[designer485]

Check online parts suppliers with the make and model of tool and see if a new housing is available. The housing kits are usually pretty inexpensive and will save a ton of time. I just replaced a Milwaukee Impact housing for $15.

If not, wet sanding should help make things look a bit better, but if there are issues with rubber over-molding, that's where things get tricky.

Before:

After:

 

[handmadeMI]

Don't try to use the wire wheel on the bench grinder......... a guy I know told me this ends in disaster.