bpm123

There's some general advice on glues and welding techniques internet however I thought I would post here because I would think someone probably has had the same issue and has tried various solutions with a car where there is vibrations as well as jolting.

So, any suggestions on the best way to fix this crack other than getting a new piece from another car (see attached photo)? I've tried getting a new part but most of them are in very poor shape compared to mine.

1996 xj sport

jordan96xj

I would repair it from behind with epoxy and reinforcement (spare plastic or metal). I would get the piece to fit as tightly in its original location as possible to improve the external appearance. Then I might use some type of grey filler/adhesive (like one of the epoxy putties such as "metal stik") to fill the remaining cracks for appearance sake.

Oswalla

I have fixed counteless plastic pieces since learning to use an ordinary soldering iron to weld cracks or broken pieces with it. The smaller point soldering iron attachment is best for small items. An adjustable temp iron would be ideal, I have melted through a few pieces too fast with my standard fixed temp iron. It does not look pretty usually, thats why I do it from the backside. There are various techniques such as imbeding small wire rods across cracks and filling in. I recently fixed those little fins on the door speaker covers by just touching the crack with iron. Don't touch with iron for long it will melt through thin pieces, little at a time till solid. Some youtube vids are out there.

Caution: Do not breathe smoke fumes when welding plastics. Use a fan behind you or on your side to keep smoke from going up into your face.

boxburn

But that's the good stuff

fb97xj1

You can try the old baking soda and superglue trick. The soda sucks up the glue and a chemical reaction takes place. It will turn rock hard, and stays lumpy. You can sand or file it if needed. If the two parts will be under stress, i dont know if it will last. But its an option.

bpm123

I appreciate everyone's help with this. I haven't tried anything yet but I'll be trying the welding method since it'll be under stress. I have some other areas that I can use the baking soda and super glue method.

If anyone has any other comments or suggestions please post.

And, to be helpful I will post back with the results and some photos.