Repair a Fiberglass Car Body
Materials You’ll Need
- Fiberglass repair kit
- Sandpaper
- Acetone
- Mixing cup and stir stick
- Plastic spreader
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Surface
Start by sanding the damaged area with 80-grit sandpaper to remove any loose fiberglass or paint. Then, use acetone to clean the area and remove any grease or dirt. Allow the acetone to dry completely.
2. Mix the Resin and Hardener
Put on your safety glasses and gloves. Mix the fiberglass resin and hardener according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The ratio of resin to hardener is typically 1:1 or 2:1.
3. Apply the Resin to the Damaged Area
Use a plastic spreader to apply the resin to the damaged area. Be sure to work the resin into the cracks and crevices. Allow the resin to dry for at least 30 minutes, or until it is no longer tacky.
4. Sand the Patch
Once the resin is dry, sand the patch with 120-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface. Be careful not to sand too much, or you may weaken the patch.
5. Apply the Gelcoat
If the damaged area is on a visible part of the car, you will need to apply a gelcoat to give it a smooth, finished look. Mix the gelcoat according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the patch with a plastic spreader. Allow the gelcoat to dry for at least 24 hours.
6. Sand and Polish the Gelcoat
Once the gelcoat is dry, sand it with 220-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface. Then, polish the gelcoat with a polishing compound to give it a high-gloss shine.
Tips
- Wear safety glasses and gloves when working with fiberglass.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Allow the fiberglass to dry completely before sanding or polishing.
- If the damaged area is large, you may need to use multiple layers of fiberglass to repair it.
- Fiberglass is strong and durable, but it can be brittle if it is not repaired properly.
