Can this 86' seat cowl be restored?

First, guys thanks for reading my post and for any assistance that you can provide.

This seat cowl has a few surface deficiencies and because I cannot find a replacement, and probably never will find one, I think I'm stuck with this one. Therefore, I was wondering if it is possible to restore the finish. My wife tried wax and a little elbow grease, without success.

1110252041 by Low Flyer posted Nov 27, 2025 at 9:20 AM

1110252040 by Low Flyer posted Nov 27, 2025 at 9:20 AM

 

Looks like the paint has been rubbed off.

If that's the case, then a re-spray is necessary. Red is a difficult color to match perfectly, but if you repaint the whole piece and it's close to the same, it'll probably be hard to see the difference.

You should be able to have it "scanned " for a color match by an auto parts store that sells automotive paint. Some of them have the ability to produce an aerosol can of color matched paint. Not cheap, but very convenient.

 

I would at least try something a little more aggressive like Meguiar's Fine-Cut Cleaner and see if it can be improved a little.

 

Thanks for the advice, RllJoe, but it is not painted, that is the color of the plastic.

Thanks Captain. I'll give that a shot.

 

Um, no. It is not color impregnated plastic. If we are talking about a VF1000R cowl, it is 100% painted. Fighting Red R134.

 

RllwJoe, I owe you an apology. You are correct. I didn't inspect the cowl closely. The paint looks so good that I thought it was red plastic. You were right.

Captain 80's, the same to you. As soon as I saw your picture I removed my cowl and it looks just like yours. Heck, I thought it was just plastic. I'll pay closer attention and do a thorough inspection next time.

Gil

 

No worries friend!