Repair and replacement of plastic elements (since 1984) (Mazda Capella GC)

Automakers are increasing the use of plastic in their vehicles (bumpers, spoilers, even body panels, etc.). In case of serious damage to such elements, it is recommended to contact specialists in this field or replace them, since repairs in a regular auto repair shop are very expensive due to the high cost of equipment and materials. The repair technology is based on creating a groove using a rotary file inserted into an electric drill along the line of the crack in the plastic. The damaged pieces are then welded together using a heat gun to heat and fuse the plastic filler rod into the groove. Excess plastic is then removed and the entire area is treated to create a smooth, even surface. It is very important to use the correct type of filler rod, as plastic body parts can be made from a variety of materials (polycarbonate, ABS, polypropylene, etc.).

Minor damage (abrasions, small cracks, etc.) can be removed in a repair shop using a two-part epoxy repair mortar. If they are mixed in equal proportions, the solution is used for body repair in the same way as using putty on metal surfaces. The filler usually hardens in 20-30 minutes and is ready for processing and painting.

If a repair shop is replacing an entire body part or repairing it using epoxy mortar, the problem arises of choosing a paint that is compatible with the type of plastic being used. The use of universal paints is impossible due to the large number of different types of plastic from which the body parts are made. Regular paints will not adhere well to plastic or rubber. However, it is now possible to purchase a kit for the final stage of plastic processing, which includes compounds for preliminary and primary treatment of the plastic surface and multi-colored compounds for applying the final layer. A full list of instructions for use is usually included with the kit, but the basic method of using it is to apply the pre-mix to the surface to be treated and then let it sit for 30 minutes until it dries. A primer coat is then applied and allowed to dry for 1 hour before a coloured topcoat is applied. The result is a body element painted in the required color, on the rubber or plastic surface of which the paint adheres well.

[The original article is available on: MAZBOOK.ru]