How to Fix Cracked Fiberglass in a Sports Car
Several kinds of sports cars, including the Corvette, have body work made out of fiberglass. Fiberglass is a strong material, but can develo...
Several kinds of sports cars, including the Corvette, have body work made out of fiberglass. Fiberglass is a strong material, but can develop cracks and holes. To determine if your fiberglass has a crack or hole that isn't visible, tap it and listen to the sound it makes. If it sounds dull instead of tight, it is damaged. This is common, but it must be repaired as soon as possible to avoid more extensive repairs. It's simple to fix fiberglass cracks yourself without paying for expensive repairs at the auto shop.
Instructions
- 1
Clean the cracked area of fiberglass with soapy water and a rag.
2Widen the crack with the grinder to expose the entire crack. This will show you exactly what needs to be repaired, and it will give the laminate a larger surface to adhere to. Wipe the area with a damp rag.
3Use the de-waxing solvent on the outside edge of the crack. Removing the wax creates a stronger bond when the fiberglass resin is applied.
4Fill the crack with epoxy fiberglass resin, using the tool to spread it. Be sure the crack is completely filled and level with the surface of the car. Wait four hours before proceeding.
5Apply gelcoat over the fiberglass resin and allow it to dry.
6Sand the repaired crack until it's smooth and level with the car body. Polish as necessary.