Not Ducati but based on the wide experience on here, if anywhere will get a good newer it will be here. A previous owner of one of my other bikes decided to spray the small front screen black (no I have no idea why either). I presume with cheap rattle can paint. The plastic is smoked but transparent. I have tried soaking in hot water which hasn’t helped. Does anyone know any tricks to spear it off? The worst case scenario is to use a light abrasive paper on it, but worried about then polishing it back.
My memory is telling me, an automotive specific hand cleaner for grease and oil, like one of the wet wipes style has worked in the past. I'd caution against something like Swarfega is it has an abrasive in it. Andy
Beware of anything with a high acetone content, like upvc window frame cleaner. It can melt softer plastics. I'd maybe test some cellulose thinners on a small corner with a soft cloth.
As you’ve tried hot soapy water, Use 70%–91% isopropyl alcohol • Test in a small corner first • Lightly rub with a microfiber cloth This works well for light overspray and usually doesn’t damage plastic. Alternatively WD40, Spray a small amount onto a cloth (not directly onto windshield) • Gently rub the paint • Let it sit for 1–2 minutes if needed • Wipe clean • Wash with soap and water afterward to remove residue WD-40 is often the best balance of effective + safe. If Paint Is Thick or Dried: You can carefully use: • A plastic razor blade (NOT metal) • Keep surface wet while scraping • Use very light pressure Final Step: Restore Clarity If you notice light haze afterward: • Use a plastic polish like Novus #2 or Meguiar’s PlastX • Buff gently with microfiber Buy a replacement screen.
Hopefully the previous owner hasn't done the job properly by abrading the surface of the plastic or using a decent etch primer. If he has you'll probably wish you'd not started taking it off.
It’s the shittest job you could imagine thankfully which give me hope. Almost like a bad overspray, then perhaps thought, bollocks may as well do the whole thing. A soak in hot water got a tiny area off, the plastic below looks ok - not sanded or etched thankfully! I am in the lucky position of having a NOS I picked up for very sensible money. However they go for £300+ so if I can save this one I can reuse and keep the other in my spares stash just in case.
Thanks for such a comprehensive reply! I will try the wd40 first on the grounds I have some and the safety aspect appeals. Fingers crossed!
If I wanted to spray paint a screen I would prepare the area to be painted with 600 or so sand paper. If the paint is stuck on well you may well find it has been roughed up before paint.
I have tried the WD40 after hot water and it seems to be working slowly. I can get about 20mm off each cycle, I think the warmth is softening the paint and then the wd40 is helping to lift it. I am using a small plastic cap as a scraper. There is no evidence of my surface prep which is good but plastic looks a little cloudy - possibly due to solvent in paint?
Quick update, thanks for all the ideas. A combination of hot water soak and WD40 is lifting it. It will be a long process as getting about 10-20mm a time after a soak/ we cycle but coming off well. Using a cap from a butane can as a scraper and thanks working well.
