I have used bio-diesel on the black outside "plastic" molding (e.g., door and side rub rails, top of bumpers, mirror housings, etc.) of one of my Rams. After putting bio-diesel on the molding it looks like new, looks better than when a commercial product is used and seams to lasts just as long as the commercial products. However my question is, will the bio-diesel do any long term harm to the molding? As you probably know bio-diesel is one heck of a solvent (can remove paint, destroy some gaskets, etc.).

 

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I used it and it made my faded door handles (end gate as well), and the front plastic step trim look brand new.

 

How long have you been using bio-diesel on the outside moldings and have you seen any long term deterioration of the molding?

 

you'll probably start to see some build up of dried bio on it. it may start to look dull and hazy and will require more frequent use to keep it looking good. but long turn use, i think, has yet to be seen

 

Here some of these used car lot dealers use laquer thinner to give the cars a brand new shine.
After six weeks you will find out that you bought a totally worn out lemon.

 

I do not know if the bio-diesel will build up since it is a very good solvent. However, with that said I have seen on the holding container I use for my bio-diesel that a "scum" does develop over time where I have dripped product. My main concern regarding the bio-diesel is possible long term damage to the molding.


Regarding the lacquer thinner that is the first time I have heard of that being used. I may give that a try on a "out of sight" section of molding.

 

They make products for your trim, why chance damaging your truck using biodiesel on the trim ?

 

Yes I know they make products and I have tried several and have not found one that I am completely pleased with. If you have a product that you can suggest please do so. As indicated in the thread I tried bio-diesel on a very limited scale on my 98 Ram and it seamed to me to be equal to or better than the commercial products. I am just looking for a good product that will bring back the black color, get rid of the graying, will not deteriorate the molding, and will last more than a week! I live in western WA and we do get a little rain once in a while; about 70 inches/yr where I live and thus a lot of products seem to wash off very fast. Bio-diesel does meets most of my criteria and at a low cost but as I have indicated I just do not know what the long term effect would be on the molding if I continue to use it thus the question.