Railings on bow are too reflective

[tkaustin]

We are finding that when heading marginally into the sun, there can be reflections from the front railings and the windlass that are really troublesome. They seem to be curved such that they focus the sunlight toward the helm. Finally, I wrapped them with masking tape and that fixed the problem, but the end result is pretty homely; not at all up to the quality of a Ranger Tug. I'm looking for a more tasteful way to prevent that reflection.

Has anyone found a civil manner to cover up that bright-work so the captain is not blinded running into the sun?

Thanks.

 

[JamesTXSD]

Pipe insulation with color-coordinated rescue tape holding it in place... no sticky residue on that pretty stainless.

 

[Captain Nice]

You could try "dulling" the offending polished pieces with Scotchbrite, giving them a brushed finish. This would be difficult to reverse (and I'll probably draw aesthetic criticism from Forum members :shock: ).

CN

 

[stwendl]

The simple solution is to wear sunglasses with polarized lenses. Works on reflection in the water as well

 

[Captain Steve]

Visit your local dollar store and buy some pool tubes, 5' long foam tubes that are hollow. Slit them and they slide right on and off. I got red and green for port and starboard, but you could go pink and blue too. If you got grandkids you probably already own some of these.

 

[Brian B]

I would be thankful that the sun is shining and I am still boating. Never noticed this to be a problem but I am always wearing polarized sunglasses when on the water.

 

[Scuba Too]

Because of all the glorious windows and overhead glass atrium on the R-29 I also have to throw on a cap in additional to the polarized glasses depending on direction and time of day. I'm more than happy to make this accommodation for the view!

 

[S. Todd]

I have had this problem too. It is far worse with the windlass and am considering making a sunbrella cover for it. Might be a good winter project. The bow rails do not bother me so much and I can live with them shinny.

 

[Captain Steve]

same problem when you use the cabin top spotlight!

 

[rpmerrill]

Don't muck up your chrome with scotchbrite. You'll ruin it. There is a spray that is available in the spray paint section at big hardware stores. It is meant for frosting windows. I used it on my garage windows instead of curtains. It lets in the light but makes it difficult for anyone to see what's in the garage or if anyone is home.

I'm sure it will take off the glare. It won't wreck the chrome and can be cleaned off. It sticks to slick shiny surfaces nicely. Just mask off the surrounding area.

 

[Automaticman865]

Hi,
There is a product called Autodip that can be sprayed on and then later peeled off.

Stuart

 

[rpmerrill]

AKA Plastidip.
Lots of good videos on the uses and application on youtube.
I put it on the wheels of my car. Going into a second season now.

Caution, it requires a heavy coat... actually multiple thin coats in order to be peelable. Skinny coats of overspray are not so easy to peel. Use a lot of masking tape.

 

[snydzy]

Arghh! I can't believe I'm reading this!

 

[NorthernFocus]

Head north...