Repairing fairing posts with Plastex kit for my '87 VFR700F2 - could use some help, please...

Discussion in '1st & 2nd Generation 1983-1989' started by Bazza, Jun 29, 2022.

  1. Bazza

    Bazza New Member

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    Hello everyone. Been a while since I've posted.

    I've been busy....but still have my (3) '87 VFR700 F2's...only 1 of which is currently running though.

    I'm going to attempt to do some repairs on one of the fairings. The one in the photo that includes the tail light. I have other fairings to repair but for now want to focus on this one.

    It doesn't have any cracks but is missing some of the posts.

    I cannot find the thread or post(s) that explain how to do these post repairs. I remember reading how you make a mold out of a good one to replicate a duplicate one. And then just attach it using ABS cement. I have the cement, plus the cleaner, plus a small bottle of MEK, and the PlastEx kit (#2001, 2002, & 2003). I just need some directions now.

    If anyone can provide some help, it would be sincerely appreciated.

    My bike is a bit of a beater right now but the important thing is it runs and is rideable! :)

    IMG_5482.JPG
    IMG_5480.JPG IMG_5478.JPG IMG_5483.JPG
     
  2. RogueRC24

    RogueRC24 Member

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    Definitely :Popcorn:
     
  3. Captain 80s

    Captain 80s Member

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    I cut out (not off) posts from donor Honda panels and plastic epoxy weld them on (or resin). You can grind them down to the height needed before affixing. I will then make a donut shaped piece (or two halves) out of thicker ABS or fiberglass to lower down to the base of the repair to re-enforce. Nice strong repair with the correct shape for the grommet already done for you. I will also sometimes slightly reduce the diameter of the tear-drop shaped area of the post so it is a little less stressful going in and out of the grommet.
     
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  4. Bazza

    Bazza New Member

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    Thanks - great advice and tips! I don't have any donor panels on hand but if you could get some cheap (tall order?) that sounds like a great solution!
     
  5. Captain 80s

    Captain 80s Member

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  6. Captain 80s

    Captain 80s Member

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  7. Bazza

    Bazza New Member

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  8. Captain 80s

    Captain 80s Member

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    sure - why not

    For me the correct shape is already done and I know for certain the Honda ABS likes my epoxy and the things I'm affixing it to for strong repairs.

    But I do have a pretty good supply of donor panels just outside my shop door.
     
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  9. Bazza

    Bazza New Member

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    Having inventory on hand does change things a bit...ha ha. Good for you and I still like your idea.

    Good friend of mine manufactures surfboards here and has experimented over the years with different materials and fabrications. I think I will run this by him and get his take.

    I will continue to update the thread whatever happens! ;)
     
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  10. straycat

    straycat Member

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    I have made a few of these using PLASTEX

    fairly straight forward. Heat up the moulding bar and press it around the good post to get the shape. Make sure you push the moulding bar right down onto the base of the panel where the post joins it. Leave it to cool before you remove it.

    Once it cools , pull the moulding bar off the post.

    Make sure the ABS are where the new post attaches is clean and make sure you rough it up a bit.

    -I poured the plastex powder and solution into the mould, let it set for a day before removing it
    - Once removed you have a post you can now shape the base to the correct angle
    - you can attach you new post with plastex IF your panel is ABS, if your panel is Urethane of finer glass you will have to attach it with epoxy

    from the looks of you tail panel its fiberglass
     
    Last edited: Jun 29, 2022
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  11. Bazza

    Bazza New Member

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    Great advice - appreciate it!

    You know - you're right - this fairing IS fiberglass! I completely forgot about that. The others I have are ABS.

    I appreciate the information you provided. I will give it a try! Cheers! :)
     
  12. RogueRC24

    RogueRC24 Member

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    Any brand recommendations on abs epoxy?
     
  13. Bazza

    Bazza New Member

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  14. Captain 80s

    Captain 80s Member

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    This shit has been awesome for me. The only thing I use now. The reaction gets a little "hot" and creates an amazing bond. Sandable and paintable, done it many times.

    devcon.jpg

    I know everyone has their "shit", but this stuff does not disappoint.

    I've also used it to bond fiberglass.

    -
     
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  15. 34468 Randy

    34468 Randy Secret Insider

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    My latest read is to just go to Home Depot and buy ABS plumbing glue. Apply and hold pieces together. Our plastics are made with ABS plastic and the glue actually welds the pieces together to form a single piece again. If you want to reinforce the piece, get a small piece of ABS plastic and glue it to the back side of your glue up.
     
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  16. Bazza

    Bazza New Member

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  17. straycat

    straycat Member

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    Works on ABS, but in this case when the panel is fibreglass, not so much. On ABS you can also make a paste/glue from Acetone & ABS shavings . works VERY WELL
     
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  18. straycat

    straycat Member

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    Just be sure to wear a mask when grinding that stuff.

    Personally I think you'll find the Plastex makes a perfect replica of your post and will take very little time at all
     
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  19. 34468 Randy

    34468 Randy Secret Insider

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    I was going to say that but forgot. And correct, won't work on fibreglass panels. I have tried using plastix a couple times and was unsuccessful. That could be operator error though. I know my GS had a crack fixed by a previous owner with plastix, and it failed the first time I took it out onto a Forrest Service road. I understand others have had good luck with it though. Gorilla tape kept that panel together until I sold that damned thing and bought my Twin.
     
    Last edited: Jun 30, 2022
  20. Bazza

    Bazza New Member

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    Going to work on that while I wait for the rod to come. Just curious if I can make one out of stock. Will share my results here of course! :)
     
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