Apple G3

Hi,


I took a notion on buying an Apple iMac G3/400 "gumdrop" Indigo.

Funny, i always wanted one when i was younger but couldn't afford it, yet now I've got a Macbook Pro.


My question is about restoration. The G3 is fully working with a clean default install of OSX4.11 Tiger, plus OS9.22 running in dual boot or 'classic' mode, which may be useful if you still need to dip into older software.

But i want the exterior brought unto "showroom" condition. The indigo case is in good condition but has scratches and the cream exterior needs brought back to its once clean appearance.

Overall, the machine is well looked after but i want it looking like it's off the shelf.

Anyone got any ideas on how i can achieve this and where to start looking? I've checked on-line and it's more replacement hardware and add-ons as opposed to casing refurbishments.

Thanks,

Gareth

PowerMac, iOS 9.2

Posted on Aug 28, 2016 10:56 AM

Reply
7 replies

Aug 28, 2016 3:27 PM in response to gareth266

Polishing plastic is a very labor-intensive job, but if that's what you have your heart set on doing look for a quality plastic restoration kit. Products used for aircraft window restoration would be appropriate.


I would disassemble everything so that you can immerse the plastic case all by itself into a tub or similar area so that you can wash it with running water. You will need lots of water, sandpaper, polish, and time. Don't dry sand anything unless you want to generate enormous quantities of dust, which is the last thing you would want in its interior (another reason for removing all its interior components).

Aug 28, 2016 3:40 PM in response to John Galt

Hi John,


That is extremely helpful.....and yes I've got my heart set on restoring it.


It was difficult enough to find one that I could get posted out to me.

Eventually found a G3 in reasonably good condition more more importantly, operating very well with original settings. With a little persuading, the seller agreed to post out to me.

I pickled up a heafty courier cost.....but it's a G3!! 🙂 I wanted one of these in my youth but couldn't afford it. I guess it's more nostalgia than anything.


So, I want it looking it's best and the plastic (especially indigo) really is its talking feature.


Thankyou for your advice.


Next on my Retro list is an Apple Cube and hopefully a Macintosh 128K


Gareth

Aug 28, 2016 6:08 PM in response to gareth266

Another option are those kits sold at automotive supply outlets that restore yellowed and dull plastic headlamp covers. They might be a cheaper option as anything that has "aviation" or "aircraft" in the name usually gets a big price bump.


Test on a section of the case that is out of sight. I would create a small test section on the case bottom, apply the cleaner per instructions, and then wait a couple of weeks to see if any yellowing or crazing has occurred.

Aug 29, 2016 1:36 AM in response to gareth266

There are some likely source links in this dedicated search result.

https://www.google.com/#q=plastic+clean+polish+powermac+imac+g3+plastic


A fair time ago, I knew a lady who ran an Apple repair business and

she used some common items to clean the white and colored plastic

cases of early non-beige 'white + colors' iMac, iBook, & PowerMac.

And surprisingly like new. They brought a higher price, too.


Not sure if she used 'bon ami' or some other cleaner with mild abrasive.

This product uses a 'abrasive powder feldspar' with mild detergent to polish.

For more info on this product and rumors about its use, may be found here:

https://www.google.com/#q=bon+ami+polish+plastic


{The 'magic eraser' items sold in stores may be worth experimentation.

A generic off-brand I bought, has not been tried. Suggests damp use.}


In the links within search are some ideas; commercial plastic cleaners for

computers are available from vendors. And screens can be a specialty.


NewerTech® : iDevice : Clean & Polish Kit

www.newertech.com/products/polishkit.php


NewerTech Clean and Polish Kit removes scratches from your Apple iPod, iBook,

MacBook (white) or any plastic ... Remove scratches from your Apple iPod, iBook,

MacBook (White) or any plastic surface with this 3 step plastic polish system. ...


Cleaning your Apple products - Apple Support


Since the iMac G3 has a durable cover over the CRT, unlike later iMacG4

with LCD (soft) there are more items that could help clean or polish G3.


Good luck! 🙂

Aug 29, 2016 1:41 AM in response to Allan Jones

HI Allan,


thats a very good point and will defintely look at that option


I've got two really good options from both yourself and John. The aim is showroom condition refurbished iMac.

I've already paid extra costs for it to be delivered....gotta go the whole way!


Thanks again Allan and I'll update everyone, just in case anyone else is interested in doing the same.

Gives them direction if they want to carry out a similar project.


Gareth

Aug 29, 2016 1:47 AM in response to K Shaffer

HI,


Again, this is extremely helpful.


I'll look at all these links today.

I wasn't as successful as you in finding as many options or specialized cleaning processes.


Interesting fact about the G3 and G4 regarding durability, I will remember that when I'm on the lookout for a G4 and ensuring its externally sound.


Many thanks,

will keep you posted!!


G.

Aug 29, 2016 2:43 PM in response to gareth266

Just to update you, found these links extremely helpful.

I've bought plastic restoration fluid and light buffing equipment.


As a bonus, i found a UK company who can totally restore / exterior clean if i want to post to them, however i fancy the job myself.

Bought a few spare items such as USB apple mouse Grade A condition from same supplier as plastic cleaning materials so def worth while.

Thanks again, big help.


G.

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