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How to Repair Bumpers

Universal repair procedure for all plastics

(Our thanks to Crest Midwest for images and information!)

Problem Plastics - TPO, TEO and other "waxy, greasy plastics" - Automakers are continuing to use new and exotic plastics in the manufacture of current day vehicles.  Automakers tell us that the use of these 'hi-tech' plastics is expected to grow dramatically in future vehicle production. Future repair procedures for these new plastics require advanced repair materials capable of providing the performance necessary to make these repairs.  Plastics like TPO, TEO and other Olefin blend plastics exhibit a 'waxy or greasy' characteristic.  When sanded, 'balling up or melting' characterize 'problem plastics'.

The information here has been put on the website to answer numerous inquiries that we have received.  YOUR REPAIR WILL ONLY LOOK AS GOOD AS THE EFFORT YOU PUT INTO IT.  The bottom line is that we can't be held responsible if you screw it up by skipping steps or trying to create shortcuts.  While a lot of people can do this type of repair themselves, others need to leave it to the professionals.  Enough ranting, now on to the good stuff.


The following guidelines should be followed for basic bumper repair. 

  1)  Wash with car wash soap or other cleaner, then degrease with solvent.

  2)  Enlarge area and bevel/soften edges to increase bonding surface area.

  3)  Drill 1/8" pinning holes 3/8" apart.

  4)  Grind underside of repair to remove any debris.
 

   5)  Scuff repair area and surround surface with 80 grit.  Wipe or blow off area.

    6)  Repeat bevel/soften if necessary.

  7)  Flame treat repair area with propane or butane torch.  Simply fan the area with flame tip - do not heat.

  8)  Install 2" paper tape on rear of repair.

  9)  Depress tape to provide air space to allow flow of repair material.

  10)  Prepare product for dispensing.  First, balance the cartridge to ensure both sides flow evenly.  Install static mixer.

  11)  Dispense a short bead until color is uniform.  Dispose of this bead.  Product is now ready for application.

  12)  Put the tip of the tube into one of the pinning holes and dispense the product until it comes out of the hole next to it. Continue that, making sure each pinning hole is filled. Fill area between tape and pinning holes with product.

  13)  Continue to fill area until slightly over-filled to provide material for sanding.

Continue to Page 2 of Bumper Repair

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