How To Plastic Weld and Fix Broken Or Cracked Plastic Pieces

[@timbaumann9046]

Never thought to use the steel wool. Even at 58 years old... you STILL can learn something new! Thanks Bro!!!

[@mdholley7145]

👌🏻😒

[@jackjones9460]

Same as me at 56!

[@SickndSoul]

It's also good for polishing/buffing/cleaning glass, mirrors, chrome and more. Typically the 00 s.wool is most appropriate for doing this. The finer the better

[@BADD400]

Good video

[@RAFAELGONZALEZ-kc2yn]

...65 🤔👍🏻😉

[@rocketj2835]

THE BEST I'VE EVER SEEN I'm 65 and son of an industrial instructor supervisor of electrical & soldering irons. Extremely impressed with the wisdom & the presentation & teaching level. Forever grateful to you for this.

[@Genevo9]

Thank you so much! Means a lot and respect for you sir 🙏🏽!

[@rogerthat10-47]

It's nice to see we can learn from some of the younger generations, it's a shame that more of them aren't like this.

[@jimmybare3026]

Agreed 👍

[@ronnor58g]

Nice job! The steel wool trick is VERY clever! This is what you tube was meant to be, 63 years old, and still learning. Keep up the good work!

[@bethwright8595]

I'm 63 years old myself, and thinking of repairing a long crack in my ABS plastic kayak using a soldering iron, as some of my colleagues have done on their rotomolded polyethylene kayaks. And the weird thing is that I totally stumbled upon this video while looking at others about a squeaking clutch pedal! Perhaps I was meant to see this. 😉 I already have steel wool so I won't have to buy fiberglass mesh.

[@alanabraham4809]

Nice job patna i appreciate the job i learn something to day this is why i like to watch KZbin

[@josephmaddelajr1764]

I worked in a body and fender shop for 25 years and got certified in plastic welding at our community college. The challenges for that plastic weld system that was promoted is the cost of the materials like plastic weld rods, adhesion promoters etc. Add it to labor cost, it's cheaper to just purchase a new car bumper cover or headlight. You've given a possible opportunity for people to save money. Awesome video... keep up the good work! Mahalo from Maui, Hawaii

[@honeybear8485]

52 years old and this is brilliant kid.. ty for sharing you do excellent work 👍

[@GLOandSHOTTYsHOW]

Really appreciate the fact that you picked it ip by the fixed tab shows how you stand behind what you do

[@Genevo9]

Thank you 🙏🏽

[@user-qg6tp7bf3m]

This is an awesome video I’m always trying to fix things and I’m so glad I found you once again . 😊

[@greggphillips6402]

My desire to weld plastic doesn't involve automotive components, but I sure do appreciate you putting this video together! It's given me the confidence to tackle a headache project that I didn't have a clue (before) how to fix. Thanks!

[@philiplasky6760]

Thank you so mutch for this great inside to fix the head light that's exactly what happened to me.

[@thomasjensen3226]

same! ive never really had a good idea how to weld plastic.. usually involves tape and filling with crazy glue...yea. THANK YOU!

[@billl7724]

I used to work for a company that would plastic weld and it definitely works. Your work is supper clean and well done. Nice!

[@PrettyShinyCoins]

Dude! 4 years ago and I'm just now finding your post1 The absolute best production I've seen about how to weld plastic, and I haven't even tried it yet!

[@belbal5004]

Thx, you showed me a new skill I could use. I was reading and watching, but opened to like your chan.

[@blue68chevelle]

I’ve taken wire bent in a zigzag pattern and embedded it in the plastic across a break. The soldering iron heats the wire which sinks into the surrounding plastic. It makes a really strong repair. Metal screen wire works also.

[@marshalllhiepler]

Metal screen is superior to any other type of reinforcement. The woven mesh distributes the load evenly over a large area, in an interwoven fashion. Be sure to wipe the screen mesh with acetone, to remove any wax or oils from the surface, to assure adhesion of the plastic.

[@a1hamer]

That's what i used ( ss fine mesh) to fix my broken abs fairing (tabs and tears) of my thundercat mc. Stronger than original !!

[@timgreen2426]

Dont talk sheet..make a video!!!

[@blue68chevelle]

@@timgreen2426 it’s called sharing a tip that works, apparently you don’t know the difference.

[@chielieazo2988]

🙏🙏🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@keithcarmany5502]

I have melted broken plastic things with a soldering iron and always wondered what to fill & strengthen and you gave me answers! Thanks man.

[@bakermark6891]

Ohh yeah! Use those copper box staples bro!! Place them where you want, and heat them. They will just melt into the plastic and have a strong bond.. Try it out my friend!!!!! God bless

[@UpInYourFeelings]

There's little metal screens that are made for that, some came with my plastic welding kit from Amazon and you can buy just the metal screes for like $7.

[@martinschaber2945]

You showed me great tricks to fix unglueable plastics. Thanks.

[@waltersobchak7275]

@@UpInYourFeelings what about welding with super glue and baking soda

[@lydiahubbell6278]

@@waltersobchak7275 I have had pretty good luck with super glue and baking soda. Depends on what the project is, I guess.I got a plastic weld kit from harbor freight...it had metal screen with it. I think I the steel wool idea is brilliant. Also, the super glue and baking soda seems a lot like building up acrylic nails and there is also fiberglass tape to fix broken nails.

[@sdawg58]

Dude! I love how "messy" it looked during the process and you kept saying "Don't worry we'll clean it up at the end." Then boom! All cleaned up and strong as heck!! Nice work!!

[@aazv23]

Using steel wool (wire mesh) is a brilliant idea... Excellent video.... Thank You

[@paulberkley3880]

I've been scratching my head how to repair some PC cases that have broken components, rather than just bin them and replacing them. This method with the wire wool will save me a small fortune. Thanks so much.

[@trex9263]

I have no idea why this was in my recommended videos, but I'm sure glad it was. Nice presentation and proof of sturdiness. Now, you got me wanting to weld plastic.

[@barrysmith5189]

We're in the same boat here, I think. A quick look around the house revealed that I have no broken plastic items to weld. Thinking of breaking something.

[@Genevo9]

Thank you! 🙏🏽😊

[@seaogre139]

I didn't know it was possible. Happy to see this!

[@jeanniebeneanie3752]

Me too 😆

[@Sam-fg6qb]

Cracks ??? Thanks for the idea it awesome....

[@CheapCheerful]

I'd heard of plastic welding before, but never seen it. I love this! Especially that I can use everyday materials. The steel wool is genius! Great job Genevo9 - from Australia.

[@peterkincaid6406]

WHAT IS IT WITH THIS **. SODERING IRON **. WHAT THE LLLLL NO L S O L D E R I N G !!!??

[@Lightning-Man-1954]

I'll find the tips immensely useful. Thanks for your tips

[@caretakerfochr3834]

@@peterkincaid6406 Ya. It's a cultural thing. In US speak they tend to the French root where the L is silent. Kinda like the alumina/aluminium thing.

[@spockfpv]

It's cool to read how many people you have helped with this video. Such a inexpensive and effective solution. Thanks

[@carloscasian955]

I'm 50yrs old and I've been working on internal combustion engine driven vehicles since I was 5 yrs old. I've have a knack for finding creative solutions to difficult to what seems impossible problems. But I have to admit that I am truly impressed with this solution to a common but difficult to repair problem on plastic components in automobiles, especially when the broken pieces are load bearing or structural. So I want to thank you for posting this instructional video and teaching us old dogs an excellent solution for plastic component repair. Great ingenuity and problem solving skills, young man! Keep up the great work and I'll be following your channel for sure. Have a great day.

[@fredroger4623]

Excelliant instructional video , this will help a lot of us handy guys GOOD WORK !

[@408mistydw]

I straight up bought a plastic welder and I’ll tell you what, what you’ve done here is 100X better than what the actual plastic welder can do. I’ve got a radiator housing for my Mini Cooper S, that are notorious for breaking and that I’ve tried fixing 100 different ways, that I am going to fix using this method. Yes I said I’m going to fix cause I have that much confidence in this method that I KNOW it’s gonna work. I’ll update you once I know he w my project is going. Thanks for breakdown and the instructional video on this method. I’m gonna go do it.

[@Genevo9]

Thank you so much 🙏🏽😊

[@jspee1965]

DO it! Do it! Do IT!

[@notaforte]

As a DYI KZbin self taught researcher, I would video first then add your voice with narration later, please keep the voice normal and very, very low background Music. Keep it professional so us DYI folks can easily listen and zip to what they need to see and hear. It may rack more viewers!

[@RisenOath]

Just respect his method and adjust instead.

[@tea9176]

It’s not rocket science

[@I_Am_Killer_B]

What's "DYI"?

[@user-zl1pj5ii1f]

I like the live talking. Not the voice over.

[@midcoastmoto8724]

I learned plastic welding a few years ago but I've never heard of the steel wool idea. Great upgrade to the standard practice, thanks bro!

[@shujaathkhan8970]

866.

[@stephenferrera-grand7827]

Thank you my friend, the perfect use of KZbin shown here.

[@HAuten-zp9lh]

I’ve been an electro-mechanical tech since ‘79, and must say this is brilliant my friend!

[@jholmesgt]

Very helpful. Also, you can use the steel wool to clean your iron. Just pack some into a small cup like container and insert your hot iron into it and turn a few time. Iron will come out clean as new.

[@onlythetruth883]

Won't it melt the steel wool?

[@jholmesgt]

@@onlythetruth883 I guess it depends of the grade of the steel wool. If you are using "super fine" grade, then maybe. I use stainless steel wool scrubbing pads. I pack one into a cup lined with thick foil (so the iron doesn't melt through the cup) and then clean my iron by inserting into the steel wool while it is still hot. It cleans the iron tip very nicely.

[@stevenfoster1940]

I've been welding broken plastic parts for about 20 years plus I never use soldering iron before that's a great idea

[@kylelacey6540]

The steel wool is genius! I've seen hundreds of tips to repair plastic but never seen the steel wool trick. I will definitely be using it!

[@Genevo9]

Thank you 🙏🏽

[@ernestogandia922]

What's the number of the steel wool that you used sir?

[@edy5082]

@@ernestogandia922 0000

[@kylelacey6540]

@@ernestogandia922 I used 000 Extra Fine but my job was much smaller than his. You would probably want something a little more coarse for a job like his and I'm going to try something even more coarse for a pool slide repair.

[@rafaellebron238]

Excelente. You talk very show so everybody can understand and you work very slow. Probably you are a Professor. That's why you are so good. You teach me a lot. Thank you and a big hug from Puerto Rico 🇵🇷.

[@framegrace1]

Just repaired a broken rear-view mirror using this method, works wonders and the result is super strong!! (Did not use steel whool, but the join is almost as nothing ever happened) Thanks a lot.

[@shenagemmell4473]

To call this video "Helpful" is massively underselling it 😊 THANK YOU FOR THIS GENIUS FIX!! I hope it's as easy as you make it look. I kinda want to break something plastic just to P-weld it! YOU GOTTA LOVE THE CLEVER IDEAS PEOPLE ARE SO GENEROUS TO SHARE WITH US... I SURE DO! 10☆s on a 5☆ scale!

[@thusharaperera9707]

Thank you for your wonderful suggestion. You have made my life easier. Finally, I was able to repair the mudguard of my son's scooter using the same method.

[@kenmiller2519]

Kenny boy What an amazing fix! Over the years I've tried using various epoxies with very poor results. I,ll tell all my friends that you came up with a genius fix for welding broken plastic together. Thank you

[@wingsandbeaksbirder2312]

Excellent lesson! This 66 year old woman is inspired! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience.

[@bweera]

Very useful video. I have thrown away many broken plastic items over the years and if I had known your method of welding plastics, I could have saved a bundle of money. Thanks.

[@Genevo9]

Thank you so much! 🙏🏽😊 glad I could be of help!

[@LilDirt12]

I love plastic welding!! It takes patience and a steady hand. I can't believe I've never used steel wool before!! It makes perfect sense!! I have used staples, and I've used metal square net. Both work great but don't mold to the shape nor do the sand easily like steel wool. Thanks!! BRILLIANT!!!

[@ckstaff]

If ever welding a broken fender on a car, do it on the backside and use a mesh and gently press it in the heated area, make sure the plastic comes up into the mesh but do not overheat or push to hard.

[@motorv8N]

Staples are a fabulous idea!

[@toothytube]

There are various types of plastic material, and not all are compatible with one another. For this reason, plastic welding rods are produced in an assortment of materials, as well as a wide assortment of colors. I was an RV line mechanic back in the early 80's and we even had welding rods that were specifically used for welding potable water tanks and nothing else. PS: Any discarded fragments or otherwise useless bits of plastic material from the object you're welding are generally ideal for use as filler material, as long as they're clean.

[@georgerichardson5116]

I agree. I found out the hard way. When I found out about plastic welding I was welding up everything I could find that was broken. It didn't take long to find out it doesn't work with every type of plastic unless the filler material is the same as the plastic being repaired. 👍

[@666hobart]

I was just about to mention plastic welders. They work well and have been around for a LONG time.

[@thelifeofnyle8731]

Are there plastic welds for plastic gas tanks?

[@666hobart]

@@thelifeofnyle8731 Yes this is possible but good prep must be undertaken. The tank must be removed, drained and washed out a few times with dawn dish detergent (not the cheap shit, DAWN.) then rinsed very well at least twice. And then get a plastic welder and the rods for the tank materiel. The manufacturer will be able to provide you with the info for correct type of plastic.

[@Ash1965..]

Very helpful cheers

[@carryonsailing]

well done mate, adding serious value for off grid sailors like myself. Really appreciate this. I am sure you never thought it, but info like this could save someone's life some day. Take care. Peace.

[@arlenmargolin4868]

It's funny that you say how repairing a piece of plastic can save your life one day but the true part of this is that one night I was stranded on the top of lizard Head pass during a blizzard and I had a tough time driving through this blizzard to the point where when I stopped me and my girlfriend were half Frozen and wet from dealing with chains and trying to get over this dangerous pass so I tried to start my propane heater and it wouldn't be safe because my gas connection was leaking at the connection at the tank so in looking around my van I had this rubber Gumby doll that I immediately thought to cut off its arm and make a rubber gasket sort of a half plastic half rubber gasket and it worked when I took the arm and made a circular gasket and it sealed the leaking propane to where I could at least get that camper van to be at least 30° or so but at least it wasn't 20 below zero yeah I guess being able to repair things can definitely save your life

[@guyjordan8201]

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I ordered replacement headlights to treat myself but they arrived with one tab broken in shipping. Creeps want $53 to ship them both back, no replacement offered! I'd rather try this repair than lose 50 bucks on that companies bad packing.

[@John-4649]

Steel wool works, staples work well for angled pieces like this too since they are somewhat rigid and can be bent and cut to shape! Good job man!

[@danwingo7512]

I have used that method a dozen or more times, but I never thought about using steel wool, that's a fantastic idea. Thanks You!!

[@timgreen2426]

But steel wool, at least the kind he is using. Has detergent in it.

[@jimertzman6628]

@@timgreen2426 Many steel wools are coated with a fine oil so they don't rust from moisture or humidity in the package. Someone here suggested stainless steel wool which would be a better choice

[@bobkelly2447]

Using the steel wool is a stroke of genius well done ! I would however have used the tip of the soldering iron to penetrate deeper in the center of the weld joint, right on the crack and then mix the molten plastic together with the tip of the iron... I usually use piece of the same plastic that I am welding if I can get it because of the different types of plastic out there, but if that is not available just about any plastic will do.... zip ties do work very good ! so does milk cartons cut into strips about 1/4" wide but if you have a piece of the same plastic to use USE that instead as it will bond much better ! I have used metal screen before in some critical repairs which works extremely well as you can press the screen down into the plastic and then cover it with more plastic...... in my experience Hot glue guns don't work very well because of the type of plastic they use... it's the same as milk cartons I think, but depending on the repair some times you want that kind of plastic.... usually it is hard plastic that needs to be repaired.... or rubbermaid trash cans and that takes a softer more flexible type of plastic, I'm no chemist and I don't know how to tell one plastic from another... but I do know, that using the same kind of plastic on your weld repair is essential to your success ! get the Hottest soldering iron you can get, but do not use a flame ! . thanks for your video ! Well done !

[@tonyharrison2542]

Brilliant! I'm going to try this technique on my granddaughters broken dollhouse accessory. Thanks

[@sampeter8987]

wow.. i tried to weld plastic many times and never done a good job like you. than you very very much.

[@Ash1965..]

My way drilling 1 mm holes on both sides of the break and sew it with wire pulling it together then coat in epoxy glue. This works for many years

[@jeandunow7794]

Sounds like "plastic surgery", dude! 🤣😂

[@darwinogues6759]

We have the same technic.

[@glenniz1]

This video was so helpful, especially the steel wool trick!!! Been working on cars for nearly fifty years, and before watching this video I would always use JB Weld. The JB Weld works very well, and is extremely strong, but the downside is that you have to wait twenty four hours for it to cure to full strength. Your technique allows for the part to be used immediately after the repair, and you proved that it is just as strong! Thanks for the video, you just gained another subscriber!!

[@wassupjg]

Does JB Weld work well for plastic?

[@thevishen1950]

@@wassupjg yes i repaired my broken fog light. After 6 months still holding up canadian winters.

[@wassupjg]

@@thevishen1950 appreciate that, just to confirm it was standard jb weld and not their plasticweld?

[@TboneDuggins]

@@wassupjg jbweld offers a plastic weld that works extremely well

[@ArmySigs]

@@wassupjg If you watch the tests on the Project Farm channel it shows that standard JB actually works better on plastic than the JB Plastic does lol

[@mykdee2170]

Fantastic job, sir. I would’ve NEVER thought to use steel wool to strengthen the weld. Thanks for this! Absolutely phenomenal!

[@cartrack730]

Yeah I agree. Almost like fiberglassing to strengthen.

[@allentroxell7416]

Been at this sorta thing for awhile now. I use a metal screen like for a screen door. Just another idea to put on top of the steel wool. I blew my boss away when I saved him a good chunk of change by plastic welding. I’m the specialist in the shop now because of it. I did get the recognition in my pocket too.

[@janetlorna07]

I AM SO DANG PROUD OF MY SELF ! GREAT DIRECT INSTRUCTIONS. AND I DID THE LIFT TEST! WITH 1 FINGER 👏 👏 👏

[@edmundol6169]

The steel wool idea is pire genius. Many thanks to this savvy young man!

[@timgreen2426]

But its got detergent in it.

[@siderealvision]

@@timgreen2426 you can get steel wool without detergent in it 😀😀😀 - you are thinking about scouring pads meant specifically for cleaning which are infused with detergent, which are indeed, in some cases, made of steel wool😂😂😂😂

[@charlesgoepel8405]

@@timgreen2426 He's using plain steel wool. Not Brillo.

[@jimmatrix7244]

Mesh wire is better

[@ahamadhamidi6048]

Genues lay.. Nice

[@WWPTV]

Dude, you are amazing. Gonna share this on my channel. A subcontractor had a camcorder and tripod get pulled away from them in a storm and my microphone is dead. It attaches to my camcorder. Imagine doing this on a connector the size of the tip your thumb. That is what I am plasti-welding tonight.

[@ROKuberski]

Nice job on this repair. Some plastics require special glues to get a bond. I never would have thought of adding material from a zip tie. Very creative and it looks like a strong joint.

[@venkatakrishnaprasathtv6077]

This was a new experience, hats off friend never thought plastic could be bonded so strong. Very informative post.

[@sparky7915]

This is a great trick! Now I can fix my front signal light on my van. For some unknown reason a plastic tab broke on it and the light fell out. This is a cheap but good fix. Excellent

[@dannylinc6247]

Good video. The best plastic repair material is a piece trimmed off the type of piece or the actual piece in an unneeded area. Your lighting is good with that included led in the iron from Weller. You could help us see by using a desk lamp to light up the work. I saw several at our local donation charity store. I am using one above my bench grinder and lowering it from above.

[@Gary-Seven-and-Isis-in-1968]

Good video...👍 I have welded plastics in the past using heat and sometimes a soldering iron. What I really found useful here was the addition of steel wool, this looks like a great idea and I cannot wait to try it out. 10/10

[@diligentsun1154]

brilliant demonstration! looks like it's even stronger than the original well done!

[@balloney2175]

Wow!!! I'm so glad to watch this. I almost spent 500 bucks on tools for fixing stuff after watching other DIYs.

[@peteheyde7999]

I have a cracked battery cover / air intake duct on my 1999 F-350 7.3L Turbo Diesel. Since the truck is 23 years old, finding parts like this is "needle in a haystack" on a good day and SOL every other day! I tried "fixing it" with adhesives, but nothing seemed to hold up. This technique looks just about perfect for repairing this crack. I also have a Hakko FX-951soldering station with a hot wedge tip which will be absolutely perfect for this job. I'll be able to set the temperature of the blade as to where the plastic starts to melt. The steel wool reinforcement is genius. I also have other tabs and so forth that this will work very well on. Great video, subbed and liked (A LOT)!

[@Ndlanding]

Thanks! I found this extremely helpful, especially since it's the first time I've seen the steel wool trick. Love it! I don't have a car, but I've seen a lot of broken plastic that i couldn't fix very well, and now I'm rarin' to go!

[@Genevo9]

Thank you 🙏🏽 😊

[@codebeat4192]

Interesting technique. Things I tried work also very well. 1. Strong: Use a lighter to make it cheesy and then put it together. It might be a little shorter but the screw holes are wide enough to compose the difference; 2. Stronger: When plastic is thick enough, use decoration nails (hold with pliers), heat it up with a lighter and burn it into the plastic. Do the same on the other side and when it is put together, use a heated knife to spread the plastic ('wound'/gap); 3. Strongest: Have you ever tried superglue with (baking) soda? First clean parts with alcohol. Put it in position and put some soda on it (in the gap and around it). After this put superglue on it, watch the chemical reaction and feel it. Do this on both sides. If it is raw and not flat, you can use a file afterwards to slim it down. The result: It is very, very, very strong. 4. Use aluminium tape with super glue. You can also apply this after suggestion 1, 2, 3. Notice that you first clean parts with alcohol. Put superglue on the parts and after this apply some aluminium tape.

[@ericperlot757]

Totally cool and thanks to the both of you for the info. A hot glue gun also is a way to "tack weld". It actually is a strong glue but the headlight would get too hot and reactivate the hot glue. Thanks again!! I subscribed!

[@FusionAero]

In addition to having lots of flex and strength, zip-ties also have little teeth that could be fed through a ratchet or worm gear to create a sort of wire-feed welding gun for plastic. Add a downward-pointing pocket torch, (at a right angle to, and thermally isolated from the soldering iron) to pre-heat the work area, and you could bead, fillet, puddle and "stack dimes" like a pro. Stick welding is a great start, but the potential for a one-handed push-button gun is calling out to my inner inventor. Thanks for the great demo and the idea fuel.

[@christophergrimes2643]

The welding of plastics is ancient!!! Not dinosaur old, but early 60's to late 50's

[@babjikarri4432]

You can actually use zip ties in a glue gun, just cut off the tie end and feed it through.

[@glynzwat390]

I think this is awesome, for a DIY at home, for car maintenance and to repair the handle for my washing basket. I did use a soldering iron to rejoin the handle without reinforcement like steel wool or the ties. It didn't bond. This type of repair is an affordable diy cost saver. Thank you.

[@brunomarsala9394]

Thank you great reminder about plastic welding, salvaged an arm rest clip on my classic Benz sl-500 the steel wool tip was brilliant however, in my case, I had to impregnate little strips of fine mechanics wire on some thin support pieces to make it work and that made it super strong, but I did see the benefits of steel wool and reinforcement in your video. I picked up a used soldering gun kit with a plastic welding tip in it for 20 bucks. Who would’ve thought I would’ve ended up using it…best money ever spent. We also have a 3-D printer and I borrowed a little bit of the black filament for the fill versus the zip tie works just as nice.

[@imagess03]

Good explanation. You might want to try a Weller flat tip ST3, it has a wider reach and when digging in deep you won't have to use a sweeping motion. This will make the with and depth of the groove more even. Also when brushing with the tip you will cover a wider area.

[@threeputt3642]

What an incredibly creative way to fix plastic pieces! Imagine how much you would have to pay for that entire assembly. Thank you!

[@bluesfanman1]

You can also use metal window screen as a strengthener. Fill all the gaps first using the same type of plastic first. Then lay the screen across the break. Use a flat tip iron and heat the screen until it melts into the plastic. Great for all types of plastics.

[@DarkTouch]

i think you are on to something. Also, if you can get some screen that is STAINLESS steel so it doesn't rust.

[@allanclark1465]

i would normally have thrown it away and got a new one but you have taught me a good lesson here thank you i will definitely fix broken tabs now as i already have all the equipment

[@lesliebailey5721]

Thank you, thank you, thank you - I tried to fix the tab with glue, it didn’t work! I was told I’d have to buy a new unit, you have saved me a load of money. Cheers

[@JerryLeeMac]

Excellent video, I like the steel Wool reinforcement. Good job

[@Don-cs7fe]

Your technique is going to be a real money saver for me. I’ve never had luck with plastic epoxies/bonders. It a guessing game unless you know exactly the kind of plastic you’re dealing with. Welding with a soldering iron (which everybody should have) takes the guesswork out. Steel wool & wire ties, which I have a lot of, can’t wait for something to break 😊

[@dadu251]

Same here, waiting for something to break!!

[@flitsies]

This is not new been plastic welding for years, but the one thing you got wrong was the the zip tie, the head light is normally made of ABS plastic zip ties are not so you have a conflict trying to make the plastic from the zip tie weld good with ABS plastic, it often looks good but has no strength can break easily. It's like trying to welder steel to aluminum, not a good combination. So check the plastics you use and try to match them for the best results, also temperature of the iron can make a difference best not to burn the plastic as this makes a difference to the quality of the repairs. Wire wool is good but you can also use wire struts for extra support instead of the wool. And try not to breath in the fumes either extract the fumes or only work outside or wear a mask and ventilate the room, some plastics are highly toxic.

[@VittonLou]

Use a respirator you mean?

[@itsmisterchris]

Thats what i was thinking if plastics are the same ..he just slapped 2 plastics on n boom thinks hes doing it proper way.

[@SickndSoul]

Obviously this plastic was not ABS?

[@flitsies]

@@SickndSoul Not obvious at all, you can make other plastics seem as though they have stuck and done a good job but once you put a little pressure on them they simply break, some plastics will even last a short time, and then break at different temperatures, like a hot day or a cold day. That's why you need to ensure it's the right plastics being joined, and in some cases supported.

[@FangerZero]

I don't deal w/ cars but I like knowing you can do these sorts of things. I can apply this to other broken plastics.

[@ericpetteway3841]

I started doing this with plastic toys when I was a kid, and eventually tried it on other stuff. Thx for the upload

[@peterstanton253]

This was an education. Thank you. Big thumbs up!

[@Genevo9]

Thank you so much!

[@denniscamilo7219]

The steel wool tip was dope. Good to know, thanks!

[@littleraven28]

Awesome tip to use steel wool for reinforcement. I have something that broke off earlier and was wondering how to make it strong enough. Thanks a lot.

[@Ryan_Gospelling]

Looks like a great method. I definitely like your idea to use the steel wool for strength. The fact that it conducts heat with the soldering iron to help it bond is awesome! Thanks for the tips.

[@BDL090754]

Wow,... It is so good when you are shown these How-To's by the people who DO know the correct method, - Like - Like - Like ! - Thank you very much

[@omarnibiru]

Bro, u just saved me from replacing every piece of fairing on the used bike i just bought U saved me a fortune thanks a billion

[@philiphoward7426]

Good day, great job & video. The use of steel wool is a good idea. The concern of the steel wool rusting is a concern as many have said in the comments. Couple of ways to overcome this is by making use of stainless wool (hard to find at times), use of a primer and or paint after the weld, even fingernail polish, also helps with covering the scratches. For additional support in corners or over large areas the use of pipe screens or window screen material, easy to shape and form corners and cover large areas. The use of a paperclip rolled into a loop makes a great backing to a screw location. Sometimes the thicker metal needs to be preheated with a flame or a small torch. I have been repairing different types of plastics for years and have gathered a collection of different plastic pieces from junkyards. Headlight housings, motorcycle parts and pieces. I do recommend that when time permits sit down at your bench and get some practice time. The best way to learn this is by doing. Sorry for the length but as I said been doing this for a while. Several good ideas were brought up by the other comments. Have a great day.

[@brianstuckmayer3551]

Great DIY! Like Tim, I never would have thought about using steel wool! No spring chicken here either, but a new trick. Great explaining and would give you 2 thumbs up if I could! Dam that will come in so handy! Ty ty sir, and keep em coming!

[@justinhughes4119]

Wow .. This is actually mind blowing. I'm a fairly proficient welder but ive never considered this. Great video man, thanks!

[@bradleycortez7909]

Another method that I've used ,using window screen for reinforcement on other projects,and using the same method used in this video, steel wool is excellent choice.

[@itsoktobebeige]

Absolutely excellent. Man, when you picked it up I was holding my breath in case it snapped. Really impressive fix. Thanks.

[@haywoodloy8918]

Thank you . Never thought about it. I'm a metal man. 22yrs. Iso.cert. retired.lol. but that's cool to know maybe show someone young your trick. Lol thanks again have a blessed day.

[@nathankostos9924]

I'm 68 years old and you just taught an old dog a new trick. Great Job!

[@yousafzaiaa7453]

This looks very strong... I am seriously thinking to break apart the original ones and then get them fixed this way :)

[@kenlee224]

You are such an adventurer that you have my highest respect. Hope yo hear from you with your successful repair.

[@edgardolim9953]

Yeah! You might need a kilo of plastic and half a kilo of steel wool. Possibly consume 50 kwh of electricity. Don't forget your feedback.

[@neog4822]

Nice vid man, can also use a wet sponge to get rid of the excess on the iron

[@Genevo9]

Yes you can but be very careful!

[@bryanderksen4448]

Nice video, well narrated, free of drama A few methodology suggestions: Glue the broken tab back on with Superglue. Yes, the joint will be weak but it has good initial tack while you proceed with the weld process Use aluminum screen door mesh in stead of steel wool. It is much stronger but is also fine enough to heat up with an iron and press into the plastic. For larger repairs which require a great deal of strength, use lengths of metal "All-Around" pipe strapping. Pre-bend it to the contour of the part, then heat it up with a propane torch and lay it down onto the plastic, pressing it into the plastic before it cools. If you are careful you can even line up the strap hole with the existing screw hole on the part. It works great and is very strong.

[@131313x]

i would not suggest super glue !! the fumes are very strong and real bad, and will make your eyes water even if your trying to be careful, i even tried to remove what i could before i started, once i seen what i was in for , was working outside and it made it harder to repair the dash bezel and the other parts i had glued with super glue before i started plastic welding

[@markpasieka]

Are you worried about super glue fumes? You have plastic fumes all over your video.... Something noone thus far has mentioned is your using nylon on what I think is probably ABS material... Guess you would have needed a material science course in your life to know the significance...

[@naturesway6935]

very intelligent way of fixing, I have been melting plastic over a flame for years to weld it together, but will now use zip ties to fill in the cracks. Thanks.

[@andrewfyakim525]

Wow! Thank you very much for this tutorial. I wish I had known about this procedure years ago. It would have saved me a lot of money.

[@johnroman4608]

Never too old to learn 👌🏻

[@Snek03]

At first I was like: wow, this guy really knows what he’s doing. Then a few minutes later I was like wow, this guy has no clue what he’s doing. He’s making a mess. Then I was like wow I think he’s just making it all up as he goes. And then at the end I was like oh wow, he actually did really know what he was doing!

[@Genevo9]

😎

[@vincentchong8576]

Lmfao

[@ogdabeast5342]

It was the "oh wow" for me 🤣

[@tsilva9514]

🤣🤣🤣🤣😂😭😭😭😂😂😂😂😂😂😭😭😭

[@125DD]

The only plastic you can weld is thermoplastics. I have done this several times, do not use zip ties, they are made of nylon and they remove later, the plastic you're welding usually has rating writing on it, PP, PPE something like that, look for that same plastic material you'll find them all over in mechanic shops or even dump yards. Use that.

[@henryvilla7611]

Dang very impressive, savvy young man indeed. Keep up the good work.

[@nunyobidness8634]

Very nice. I have also seen them use paper clips . They heat the paper clip hot enough to sink into the melting plastic and then fill over covering up the paper clips . Once you reach your desired thickness let stand and cool down. Then you can use a dremel or sand to final size.

[@veto_5762]

Just happen that my toiled lever just broke rn and i was just seaeching if theres an easy way te put it back together without glue, this video is a blessing!

[@jamesfergusson546]

I have had good luck with using aluminum screening. I had an Arctic Cat Mud Pro headlight pod that was smashed. I melted it in on both sides of the weld using a similar soldering iron with a pointed tip. If I had it a flat broad tip like a dedicated plastic welding iron would have been easier.

[@dougmorissette459]

I have welded plastics before with a Seelye hot air plastic welder and the very first thing that has to be done is to determine the type and composition of the plastic. Then you select the matching type of plastic welding rod. Not all plastics are the same composition and require a burn test to see which types they are or the weld will not hold very long or be durable. Just saying.

[@rynait]

do not do burn test. check plastic for marking to indicate what kind of plastic and use lnternet to find out what marking means or indicates. if material is not known, then do the match plastic test. Internet has that test information. also four hints. a. use aluminum tape to "tack" the broken pieces. leave corner unstuck makes easier to peel off. b. in case you are welding over the plastic identification marking, use paint pen, re-mark the code c. you can use #22 bare wire to reinforce (in addition to alum-steel screens (used for window repairs)) d. use metal "tool" to press plastic in to stitch-seal up ex: I use old metal "sugar" spoon, and/or short section of flat thin mild steel bar

[@handduggraverdronline]

I agree 💯 . To many people weld different plastic together and think plastic can't be welded because they tried it and failed

[@maximecoulombe1518]

Was missing the steel wool but now since i tried it 10x stronger thanks for the tip Buddy

[@thejames666]

This video (that I didn’t even log onto KZbin for), along with some fascinating comments, have taught me a whole skill I didn’t even know was a thing. Genuinely excited to try this. Thanks for uploading.