If you are used to working with raw fiberglass then you should know what to expect. Easy instructions come in the box.
What to expect from fiberglass vs ABS Plastic. There are several advantages to fiberglass vs
ABS. The parts made from marine
fiberglass are generally just as flexible, lighter and stronger. The tensile strength is stronger than ABS,
but it is not resistant to crushing. In
the event of damage and the part is broken in two pieces the fiberglass can be easily
repaired with items found at Walmart.
ABS is not easy to repair and some EPOXIES that claim to stick to plastic
do not. Fiberglass resin or Bondohair repair
are usually stronger than the original parts.
That is why racers use fiberglass race bodies.
What to expect. All of
these fiberglass parts are made from marine grade layered mesh and are left unfinished
in raw gel coat. The parts are removed
from the mold and trimmed using grind wheels and sand wheels. Any imperfections, scratches, stickers or
decals from the original part the mold was made from, will transfer to each
part made. These are easily sanded away with
300 grit sand paper. All defects in the
gel coat are easy to remedy and are easily fixed. It is part of the process of dealing with fiberglass. But the ultimate fit and finish will depend
on the amount of prep. Things fiberglass
finishes could have. Some just need a
light sanding and primer. This doesn’t mean you part will have any of the
issues below.
Tool marks (easily fixed with light sanding on edges)
Pin holes (easily fixed with glazing putty or filler primer)
Spider Cracks (easily fixed with filler primer)
Sticker impressions (just sand them away with 300 grit)
Surface scratches (easily fixed with glazing putty or filler
primer)
Gel Coat color swirls or uneven finish (just paint over with
primer)
Release putty in inner edges
(just clean out with screwdriver or brush)