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Plastic parts

2009-01-20 23:49:38

Plastic parts

As you all are probably aware from my previous posts I am restoring my 1967 C150G. I ordered a full set of plastic interior parts from Vangate Plane Parts. While fitting them to my airplane...which is a major job in itself...I noticed several areas on different parts that were so thin you could see light through them. One area even had pinholes in it and I could have easily stuck my finger through it if I wanted to.

My IA buddy says that is typical for parts from Vantage because they are really the only supplier of full sets and since I am so far along he says I should just use PVC Cement/Solvent and fiberglassglass cloth on the back side of the parts in the weak areas and let it go at that. He says they will be stronger that way and save me hours of refitting a replacement set from Vantage.

Have any of you ever used this technique to repair parts or strengthen them? I really don't want to ship them back to Vantage just to receive the same quality because that will put me weeks behind on my restoration project. I am keenly intersted in hearing from anyone who has done this.

Thanks,
Reece

reecedaniel: 117 Posts

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2009-01-21 01:16:20

Re: Plastic parts

CESSNADONHi Reece,

I would call Vantage. I purchased rear window, door posts and window post trim. I did not see any thin spots or pinholes.

I agree fitting is a PITA...A left, right and straight aviation shears, a Sharpie and a Dremel will go a long way toward getting a good fit. The secret is to trim outside the line and carefully work you way in.
Using the old trim as a pattern also helps.

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2009-01-22 02:10:39

Re: Plastic parts

Don,
I called Vantage. They want me to send photos of the parts and I'll do that soon. I am sure they are a reputable company and I just got unlucky with a couple of thin parts. I really hope they say to go ahead with the PVC patch because I don't want to have to ship the parts back.

I didn't think about the shears. I have been using a dremel tool with a cut off disc and a sanding drum. It's just that I didn't expect this much fitting to be necessary.

I bought my windows from Great Lakes and their customer service was excellent. The same is true for TN Wings where I got my carpet, headliner and new seat covers.

All in all I have been very satisfied with all the suppliers I have dealt with during my engine overhaul, annual and the interior restoration. Maybe this weekend I can get the plastic installed and get over this hump. Nobody said restoring this plane would be easy but I am proud of the way it is turning out. Thanks for the tip on the shears.
Reece

reecedaniel: 117 Posts

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2009-01-22 13:31:10

Re: Plastic parts

Due to storm (tornado) damage I did a "remake" on my 68 172 last year. In addition to damage repair we opted to do the complete paint job, plus winshield, plus all plastic parts, overhauled/balanced prop. I looked at the plastic parts and most seemed flimsy at best. I opted to go with the tougher fiberglass components from Stene Aviation. they are more expensive but are very well made and they fit well.

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2009-01-23 11:58:24

Re: Plastic parts

I'm not sure that Stene make the complete line of trim parts...Vantage parts are more substantial than Cessna's and a helluva lot less costly..
True, you need to trim to fit, consider it a bonding experience with your airplane...BTW, save the trim scraps from the Vatage parts and dissolve in MEK. Make an excellent repair material.