stress crax typology

[baileyman]

I am preparing an S2 body for repaint and cannot help but notice the distribution of stress cracks. It seems there may be some typical places these show up that could not only be repaired but possibly cured if there is an underlying structural reason.

The cracks that I see that I think I can cure radiate from the inside corners of the headlight openings. I think I can reinforce this area perhaps by looping some foam backer rod underneath around the hole and glassing in to form a tube reinforcement.

Are there other such locations to reinforce on regardless of whether any cracks show?

John

[types26/36]

Around the door handles and the boot hinges come to mind.

[alan.barker]

Have you got a copy of "How to Restore Fibreglass Bodywork" by Miles Wilkins, it makes good reading.
Alan

[reb53]

Have you got a copy of "How to Restore Fibreglass Bodywork" by Miles Wilkins, it makes good reading.
Alan

I'd second that.
I pretty much followed his technique to the letter when I did my car 27 years ago.
I have yet to have a single crack reappear.

The only thing I did, that I don't recall being in the book, was to glue some bubble wrap under the front wheel arches.
I then covered it with a thin layer of fibreglass.
No more stone "stars".

Ralph.

[baileyman]

Books ordered. Thanks for the reference. Interesting how the fibreglas one has become somewhat collectable.

John