Bumper repair
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 2,577
Likes: 2
From: Long Island New York
Bumper repair
Hi Guys,
I am looking into purchasing a used bumper from an '81 for my '77. I really like the look of it on a flat window car. However, it has 2 small tears in it and I would like to know if anyone has had any expierence with type of repair and what's involved in fixing it. Also, should it go directly on my car without any type of modification to either my car or the bumper?
Thanks
I am looking into purchasing a used bumper from an '81 for my '77. I really like the look of it on a flat window car. However, it has 2 small tears in it and I would like to know if anyone has had any expierence with type of repair and what's involved in fixing it. Also, should it go directly on my car without any type of modification to either my car or the bumper?
Thanks
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,944
Likes: 22
From: Yooperville MI
I assume you are thinking of changing your rear bumper to an '81 and you found a used '81 urethane bumper that is torn? Are they tears or cracks? An '81 will fit with some minor modifications, I can walk you through them.
The urethane bumpers get brittle with age, and cracks are common. If a new or used fiberglass bumper is within budget, you would be much better off (new). Otherwise, bend the used bumper where the existing cracks are and again in the mounting area, if you create a new crack or the existing cracks spread, walk away. Cracks can be filled with a repair kit after you mount the bumper, but they won't be invisible. And you don't want the mounting area breaking away after installation. The next problem with a used urethane bumper are the waves that have settled in the surface and the paint condition for recoating.
The urethane bumpers get brittle with age, and cracks are common. If a new or used fiberglass bumper is within budget, you would be much better off (new). Otherwise, bend the used bumper where the existing cracks are and again in the mounting area, if you create a new crack or the existing cracks spread, walk away. Cracks can be filled with a repair kit after you mount the bumper, but they won't be invisible. And you don't want the mounting area breaking away after installation. The next problem with a used urethane bumper are the waves that have settled in the surface and the paint condition for recoating.
Pro
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 683
Likes: 4
The urethane bumpers get brittle with age, and cracks are common. If a new or used fiberglass bumper is within budget, you would be much better off (new). <Quote>
I agree with this. The older bumpers become so brittle they will desintergrate. I just took one of a 75 and set it on the floor and each day it had a new crack. I replaced my rear bumper with a urethane from Ecklers. It fits well and has no waves and the materials used in todays products are way and above the original.
Good Luck
Steve
I agree with this. The older bumpers become so brittle they will desintergrate. I just took one of a 75 and set it on the floor and each day it had a new crack. I replaced my rear bumper with a urethane from Ecklers. It fits well and has no waves and the materials used in todays products are way and above the original.
Good Luck
Steve
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 876
Likes: 1
From: Same as our leaders Out of my mind
Sorry to hijack your thread but...
I also have a used urethane bumper, no breaks or tears, seems pretty firm and even pliable, but the top, in front of the spoiler, is wavy. How do you address this issue?
Thanks!
I also have a used urethane bumper, no breaks or tears, seems pretty firm and even pliable, but the top, in front of the spoiler, is wavy. How do you address this issue?
Thanks!
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,944
Likes: 22
From: Yooperville MI
Originally Posted by icanfixitforyou
Sorry to hijack your thread but...
I also have a used urethane bumper, no breaks or tears, seems pretty firm and even pliable, but the top, in front of the spoiler, is wavy. How do you address this issue?
Thanks!
I also have a used urethane bumper, no breaks or tears, seems pretty firm and even pliable, but the top, in front of the spoiler, is wavy. How do you address this issue?
Thanks!
