restoring my windshield

[skromfols]

I have the original Hondaline windshield on my Valk .  Yesterday I was headed directly into the sun and my windshield is so scratched up that it was almost impossible to see through.  The scratches aren't deep, just the kind made when someone wipes it with a paper towel, and over the years those light scratches and swirls have added up.  Can anyone advise me on how to remove those scratches?  I've seen a few suggestions on the interrnet, but I'd prefer to rely on information from fellow Valk owners who I trust.

Stan

PS  I tried checking to see if I could buy a replacement Hondaline windshield, but no luck, I think they went out of business.

[Harryc]

https://www.clearviewshields.com/motorcycle-windshield/honda/valkyrie-std-tourer-shields/

[skromfols]

Thanks Harry.  I had no idea that anyone made replacements.  I'll have one on order tomorrow.

Stan

[Gryphon Rider]

Can't the harder surface layer be peeled off, leaving the base layer that can be polished to remove scratches?

[John Schmidt]

Clearview is a good choice, but just so you'll know....the OEM w/s has a thin film covering on both sides which pretty much prevents buffing out scratches. The only way you can do it on the OEM is to spend the time to remove the film and then do the buffing. Not really worth the trouble, go with your Clearview.

[Jess from VA]

The Hondaline shields are polycarbinate, which all have a very hard coating, and I think as that coating deteriorates over the years, that is what makes seeing through them so hard (especially in oncoming sun or headlights at night).  

I understand that coating can be buffed off, but it probably requires power tools and a lot of patience.

Google BUFFING OUT POLYCARBINATE WINDSHIELDS, and see what you find.  U tube often has the finest how-to's on the planet.

It always comes down to the question.... How much time and effort am I willing to invest, when I can get a new plastic (lucite) shield from ClearView for X dollars?  For exactly the same reason, I just replaced both my original polycarb interstate shields last year with ClearViews, and I can tell you it is really nice riding around all day with a crystal clear windshield.  (Not counting bugs)

This will get you started.
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=buffing+out+polycarbinate+windshields

If you do get a ClearView, take the time to get just what you want; height, width, vents, solar tint (barely).  Unlike OE, you can get one just perfect for you.

[skromfols]

Jess, now that I know that replacements are available that's the direction I'll go.  I had no idea.

Stan