Glue for Helix panels ?

[TexanForever]

Can anyone recommend any glue or solvent that is compatible with the Helix plastic panels and can be used for repairs ? Something that makes a strong bond and will not release at some future date.

I am considering trying PVC cement but perhaps something else would work better. Plastics chemistry is not my thing. All suggestions will be appreciated.

[fire1427]

I used a plastic welder when I broke a tab off

[TexanForever]

I used a plastic welder when I broke a tab off

could you be more specific with respect to the name of the product, method of application, how well it worked, etc.?

In the past on other projects I've had disasterous results when the glue formula wasn't compatible with the type of plastic.

Some of the PVC glues plumbers use will make a permanent bond on almost anything. Helix body panels are more flexible than plumbing PVC and that suggests a potential compatibility problem.

[Dennis]

Check with a local hobby shop for airplane glue. I believe it is polystyrene glue. Seems to actually melt the pieces together? Its good stuff. May have to sand off any paint in the gluing area before use.

[TexanForever]

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Thanks Dennis. Polystyrene might be the stuff I'm looking for.

I don't plan to get it on the paint or outer surfaces. I used to build lots of model airplanes, mostly wood and fabric, and know how to handle glue. I intend to try to work out a way to repair tears by applying a thin splice layer of similar plastic generously across the back of the tear where it won't show. With luck it might be possible to restore tabs or "grow" new ones. A strong glue joint that actually welds the plastic pieces into each other will be key.

[Dennis]

If you find you can "grow" new tabs you might want to paint your Helix green and name it Kermit!

[fire1427]

Plastic welder from harbor freight ... I used the sticks that came with it to "weld" the broken tab back on

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/d ... mber=41592

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/D ... mber=41602

I picked it up on sale for $20

[TexanForever]

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Thanks fire. I didn't know there was such a thing as plastic welding. Looks like it might be the solution.

TF

[Alarmnbob]

I use a product named SUPER JET it is made by JET GLUES products.
It is a super glue that can be found in hobby stores. It is used for gluing
Rc Model planes together. It comes in different thicknesses. You can use an excellerant "JET SET" to make it dry faster. It builds up perfectly.
http://www.jetglues.com/index.shtml

[TexanForever]

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WOW, it's hard to decide between these great suggestions. Thanks guys.

At the moment I am inclined to go with SUPER JET for bonding because it requires no heat that could damage the candy apple paint on the outside of the panel. I might use the thicker, slower version for tab buildup. For repairing cracks I will use a short reinforcing strip of similar plastic on the backside, crossing the gap.

Thanks Bob

Right now it's too cold to work outside, so I'll wait 'till it warms up. I believe in no-hassle comfort. That's why I ride a Helix.
.

[slonaker]

I moved this thread to the correct forum...

A bodyshop supply store can provide you with materials that are actually intended to repair that type of plastic, whatever it is.

Patrick

[Alarmnbob]

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WOW, it's hard to decide between these great suggestions. Thanks guys.

At the moment I am inclined to go with SUPER JET for bonding because it requires no heat that could damage the candy apple paint on the outside of the panel. I might use the thicker, slower version for tab buildup. For repairing cracks I will use a short reinforcing strip of similar plastic on the backside, crossing the gap.

Thanks Bob

Right now it's too cold to work outside, so I'll wait 'till it warms up. I believe in no-hassle comfort. That's why I ride a Helix.
.

TexanForever,
You can use a piece of fiberglass cloth on the back with this glue and it makes a really strong bond.

[corvairbob]

a couple of ways to do this would be. if you can remove the panel for a sure repair from the inside would be to use fiberglass. three layers over the crack/break and it will be a permanent repair. one other method would be from the inside jb weld. mix it up place it over the crack/break and then add a pc. of metal and cover with more jb weld. permanent repair. i wold use the fiberglass method first. you can get small repair kits from any auto parts store and even some department stores. good luck