2-part epoxy patch panel repair

[Don Wasley]

Yesterday, a friend of mine [who also is a body man with 30+ years experience] was telling me about a way to save some time and labor [and money for those of you that can't do the work, like me, because we lack the knowledge to do so] by using 2-part epoxy to bond patch panels to the vehicle body. He buys a large tube [read standard size that goes into a caulking gun] of epoxy at $50 per tube and then he applies the epoxy to the panel, the tube has a tip where both sides mix together as it's dispensed. Once it's been applied to the panel, you just clamp/screw the panel in place. After the set time has past for the epoxy, you just remove the clamps/screws and finish out the edges of the panel with a grinder and then do some light bodywork to blend it into the panel being repaired. The epoxy is waterproof and you won't have rust in that location ever again.... This will save you [or whomever is doing the work] hours of welding the patch(s) to the panel(s) and also the time grinding down the weld so it's smooth so light bodywork can be done to finish it out. Epoxy sets probably in 15-30 minutes where welding could take hours depending on the size of the patch panel.....PLUS the cost of the welding gases....just FYI....any questions, just post here or PM me....

 

[John ED Renstrom]

you can look at this set up in any east wood catalog. they have been gluing on roofs and door skins for some time now. I just never bothered to get the necessary equipment. you do need a couple more things then the glue. but it will offer a secure patch once in place. the glue is pressure sensitive and it will be water tight. but remember if you don't take care of the original problem of why it rusted to began with it will come back later. it did on the original did it not. it just won't between the two glued panels. but it is a exceptionable alternative to welding a patch panel in place

 

[Bruce Biancalana]

Panel Bond

The product that I have used is called Panel Bond. Once it has cured the bond is stonger than the metal. The metal will tear befor the bond comes apart. The nice thing about using Panel Bond is that unlike welding, you don't have to worry about warpage. I have used it patching rusted areas on gas tanks and I have never had a problem. They make Panel Bond in 1 minute, 5 minute and 15 minute dry times. It is awsome stuff!

 

[Don Lagerstrom]

The 3M number is 08115 and can be used on fiberglass, metal and plastic. I have used it in many applications without problem. I normally let sit for 24 hours to cure and then you can sand and fill over it. If you're interested you can PM me on where to get it. I work for the largest Paint Body Equipment in the industry and would br happy to help.