Title: Remove or repair damaged areas from rigid exterior composite panels.
Course: Auto Body Technology I (20117-I) > Section: Working with Plastics and Adhesives

Repairing holes and cuts in rigid plastic panels should include using backing material and adhesives.

Repairing other damage to rigid plastic panels should include removing damaged areas from rigid exterior sheet molded compound (SMC) panels and repairing with partial panel as follows:

- Sand and clean the back side of the panel.
- Bevel the mating edges of the new panel to a shallow taper to match the existing panel.
- Apply the recommended adhesives in a continuous bead, 3/8"–1/2" in diameter, all the way around the panel that is going to touch another part of the adjoining pieces.
- Apply adhesive to the part of the new panel that is being attached.
- Clamp the panel into place.
- Tighten the mill, and drill pad nuts securely.

Process/Skill Questions:

- How do repair procedures for plastic parts differ from repair procedures for metal parts?
- What does SMC mean?
- What circumstances affect the procedures and materials used to repair damage to rigid plastic panels?