How to fix cracked fiberglass in a sports car
Several types of sports cars, including the Corvette, have body work made of fiberglass. Fiberglass is a strong material, but it can develop cracks and holes. To determine if your fiberglass has a crack or hole that is not visible, press on it and hear the sound it makes. If it sounds boring instead of tight, it is damaged. This is common, but must be repaired as soon as possible to avoid more extensive repairs. It is very simple to fix the fiberglass cracks yourself without paying for expensive repairs at the auto shop.
Explanation
- Clean the cracked fiberglass area with soapy water and a rag.
- Expand the crack with the grinder to expose the entire crack. This will show you exactly what needs to be repaired, and give the laminate a larger surface to adhere to. Clean the area with a damp cloth.
- Use the dew axing solvent on the outside edge of the crack. Removing the wax creates a stronger bond when the fiberglass resin is applied.
- Fill the crack with epoxy glass fiber resin, with the function of diffusing it. Make sure the crack fills completely and at the level of the surface of the car. Wait four hours before proceeding.
- Apply gel coat on the fiberglass resin and allow it to dry.
Sand the crack repaired until it is smooth and level with the vehicle body. Polish as needed.
Tips and warnings
- Fiberglass repair in a well-ventilated area.