Plastic Repairs

501-25 Body Repairs - General Information 2016 Mustang

General Procedures Procedure revision date: 04/18/2012

Plastic Repairs

Special Tool(s) / General Equipment

ALCV-200

Materials

Inspection

1. WARNING: Before beginning any service procedure in this section, REFER to Safety Warnings

in section 100-00 General Information. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

Refer to: Health and Safety Precautions (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).

2. NOTE: In some instances, a code or material designation is moulded or stamped on the component indicating the plastic type.

Thermoplastics are solvent reactive. Types of thermoplastics include Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Sheet-Molded Composite (SMC) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). Polyolefins have an oily or waxy appearance. Examples include some bumper covers, stone shields, fender aprons and fan shrouds. Polyolefins require an adhesion promoter prior to carrying out any refinish procedure.

3. To determine if the part is a polyolefin, grind the damaged area in an out-of-sight area. Grinding a polyolefin will melt and smear the plastic and leave a ragged edge. If the part is non-polyolefin, the area will grind or sand smoothly, producing a powdery dust.

4. Polyolefin plastic can also be identified by placing a small sliver in a container of water, if the sample floats, it is a polyolefin plastic. A non-polyolefin will sink when placed in a container of water.

5. Generally, thermosetting plastics are rigid or semi-rigid. Sheet-Molded Composite (SMC) is reinforced with glass and other fibers and are strong and rigid. Sheet-Molded Composite (SMC) is used for large panels such as hoods, liftgates, fenders and quarter panels.

6. A burn test can be a reliable method to determine if a plastic is a thermosetting plastic. Extreme care must be exercised when using this method. Apply an open flame to the corner of the damaged component. If the material crystallizes and becomes hard, it is a thermosetting plastic.

7. In deciding whether to repair or install a new component, follow these guidelines.

8. Is a part readily available? Can the damaged part be economically returned to its original strength and appearance, or will the labor cost exceed the cost of a new component? Will repair provide for the fastest, highest quality repair?

9. NOTICE: Never apply solvents such as lacquer thinner or reducer at any stage of plastic repair.

Solvents, cleaners and water are absorbed by many types of plastics and by the glass fibers used