Fix crack in headlamp frame

[Mikes72]

How would I fix this crack in the headlamp frame. Not sure what this part is called. Is this part made of fiberglass of plastic?

Thanks,
Mike.

 

[mrmopar340]

Header panel I think. I'd try a plastic cement or JB weld.

 

[Challenger RTA]

First I would clean the paint off as if it was ready for primer and paint. I would clean and sand the back side ready it for reinforcement patch. If possible. Check to see if the crack can be wedged open. Here again clean with acetone or other. Try to remove loose material. While crack is open push an epoxy in and allow it to close. If possible strike off the front side to remove excess to minimize sanding. Then I would allow to dry. Scuff if necessary and apply a fiber glass sheet patch to the back side. Being sure it will not interfere with any thing. I had different experiences with different epoxies. I used one from Harbor freight that surprised me. I used it on ABS type fix. I would clean off an area on the back side and do a test on anything you would get or others suggest.

 

[Katfish]

I used fiberglass when I did mine yrs ago.
Once you grind on it, you'll see it's similar material.
Nice thing about fiberglass, it's strong and easy to work with.
Make a mistake, just grind it, and start over.

 

[Xcudame]

I've used plastic JB weld with good results from plastic gauge housings to the dogs' Frisbee. I think any two part epoxy for plastic will work including fiberglass which is a resin with a hardener - basically two part epoxy. Surface prep is key. Cleanliness is good! Put tons of "glue" on the backside and just enough on the front for cosmetic reasons! It's true, preparation is 90% of the work!

 

[Mikes72]

Thanks for all the info guys. As it would be the case the crack is right where the part number is on the backside - splits it in two. I’m going to try to make a repair such that it does not cover the part number but fixing it is more important.

 

[Xcudame]

What you can do it that case (to preserve the part number) is take a Dremel (die grinder) and "V" out the front side of the crack. Then epoxy (fiberglass) fill the groove and sand smooth. Several coats of primer and paint will hide the repair.