acrylic scratch removal-how's it done?

[kdlbem]

I got ahold of what looks to be a 7-1/2 gal. acrylic bowfront with the wet dry filter built into the back( I've seen the same tank in the lfs for$250). Pretty cool little tank, but it has some scratches in the front inside. How would a guy get those out? I used to do custom auto paint, so I know how to cut & buff. Is there a buffing product I could use on it? I'm probably going to use it as a micro-reef when it's done. Thanks in advance.
B

 

[tdp]

I personally have glass tanks but I've read that as long as the scratch is on the inside once you fill it with water the scratch will disappear. I hope that helps.
Tom

 

[mr . salty]

Lot's of fine wet sanding and a final buffing. Being a body man,I think you understand. Start no corser than 600,and go as fine as you can.Each step of finer grit will remove the scratches from the previous grit.Go till it's gone.(pushing paper,I hate it) i do alot of fiberglass repair at work.

 

[kdlbem]

I'm still debating if I should use it as a salt tank or put my brackish puffers in it. 7-1/2gal + 1-1/2 to 2 in the wet dry, seems like it will be hard to keep water stable with only 9 or 10 gal. of water. any opinions on that issue? Thanks,
B

 

[mr . salty]

You hit the nail right on the head. That is the problem with micro tanks.The water can turn from fine to toxic in a matter of hours.

 

[gobiodon]

KDLBEM,
there is a quite good product on the market called "PLEXUS", works well on all types of clear and coloured plastic & acrylic.
Not to break the small print rules (Mr.Salty
lives too close to me) here is my E-mail for
detailes - polonia@wi-net.com

 

[barbh]

Hi everyone,
Has anyone removed scratches while the fish and corals are in there? Is it safe for the reef? Thanks.

 

[kdlbem]

LFS also gave me a suggestion yesterday, check with any buisnesses that work with acrylic, they can usually sell the kits for less than lfs can even buy them(wierd....lfs telling someone to go somewhere else). Just thought I would pass it along.
B