How and what can you glue the expansion tank of a car at home
People are often interested in how to seal a car's expansion tank. Various methods are used for this purpose. The most common and reliable method of repair is to weld this part of the machine. Thanks to this, it is possible to achieve the most stable fixation. If you need to make temporary repairs, it is allowed to use glue or putty. Cold welding is also permitted.
Basic Repair Methods
When using a tank, plastic undergoes constant deformation - it contracts and expands due to constant temperature fluctuations. Thermal exposure and the influence of pressure cause the appearance of cracks in the structure of the material.
At the same time, plastic is used for the manufacture of expansion tanks, which do not react with adhesives. Therefore, it is almost impossible to perform high-quality gluing of such surfaces. In this regard, solder is most often used to repair this auto part. A sealant or adhesive can be used as a temporary measure.
Welding
Most often, cracks and cracks in the plastic of the expansion tank are sealed by means of a reinforcing metal mesh.
cold welding
Cold welding is justified as a temporary measure. With its help, it is possible to seal the cracks in order to get to the car service.
sealant
Sometimes a special sealant is used to repair the expansion tank. However, this tool is also difficult to call reliable.
Effective remedies
Today there are many effective compounds on sale that are used to eliminate breakdowns of plastic car parts.
3M DP8005
This tool is actively used for fixing various types of polyethylene and polypropylene. This glue is characterized by a high degree of resistance. This technical adhesive is a two-component adhesive. With its help, it is possible to fix polymer compounds without preliminary preparation.
Adhesive is considered a modern alternative to common methods of joining or mechanically sealing damaged parts. Thanks to the use of the substance, it is possible to obtain a seam characterized by resistance to water, high humidity and the action of aggressive substances. Therefore, it can be safely used to repair the expansion tank.
The only drawback of the composition is its high cost. However, if it is necessary to repair the tank of an expensive car, then these costs are fully justified.
Hosch
To fix the plastic parts of a car, it is permissible to use this two-component adhesive weld. It is produced by a German company. The substance is specially designed for fixing polymers. Using this glue, it is possible to seal holes and cracks in various plastic products. The seam remains flexible even in freezing weather. It is able to withstand pressure up to 12 atmospheres.
As a rule, the glued area with such glue is stronger than plastic. The kit contains 2 components that complement each other. These include liquid cyanoacrylate ether and fine powder. The mixture contains metal oxides. It also includes catalysts that improve glue line adhesion and improve adhesive characteristics.
Work instructions
For the repair procedure to be successful, it is worth choosing the right method and following a number of recommendations.
Welding
Before starting the procedure, it is important to prepare everything you need. This will require the following:
- a soldering iron with a flat tip - its power should be 40 watts;
- a fragment of a brass trellis with small cells;
- scissors for metal.
It is allowed to use a more powerful soldering iron. But in this case, you need to be careful when working. Otherwise, in the areas of attachment of the wire mesh, there is a risk of a through hole on the material.
It is permissible to remove the brass mesh from the tube of the automotive gas line. It is located directly in the tank. This mesh is used in the vehicle's fuel system and acts as a filter. After alignment, it is allowed to use it as a reinforcing layer. This will help stop the tank leaking. If you cannot find a brass mesh, it is permissible to use a steel one. This material is sold in hardware stores and is at an affordable price.
After completing the preparatory work and determining the area of the location of the leak, the tank must be thoroughly dried. This will help get rid of any remaining moisture.
Welding is considered the most reliable method of eliminating cracks. Plastic melts easily even at relatively low temperatures.Therefore, to carry out the manipulation, it is permissible to use an ordinary soldering iron. To solder the tank, you need to follow these steps:
- Place the tank on a flat surface. In addition, it is recommended to direct the crack upwards.
- Heat the soldering iron to operating temperature.
- Cut the wire mesh so that it is slightly larger in length and width than the damaged area. Apply the material to the damaged area.
- Solder the mesh into the plastic with a soldering iron tip. It is recommended to do this along the entire length of the damage.
During the procedure, it is recommended to carefully melt the plastic directly into the crack. Otherwise, it will not be possible to effectively deal with the damage. Wire mesh is considered an excellent reinforcement material. However, the patch will only be able to withstand the pressure if the plastic layer is uniform.
Bonding
To achieve good results with this method, you must use a two-component formulation. To do this, you must do the following:
- Prepare the surfaces. It is recommended to clean them from dirt. To do this, you need to use acetone.
- Apply glue. A thin layer of a liquid substance is applied to the damaged area. It is recommended to cover this place from above with solder pellets from another bottle. Then cover the surface again with impregnating glue.
- Paste the details. The adhesive composition sets almost instantly. Already a few minutes after using the substance, it is permissible to return the tank to its place and fill it with liquid.
It should be borne in mind that the interaction of the liquid adhesive part and the welding aggregate causes an exothermic reaction. It is accompanied by a release of steam and heat. Therefore, it is recommended to observe the security measures.
Welding
Cold welding is considered an auxiliary method that does not provide reliable and long-term results. This method allows to obtain a temporary fixation, which will ensure a comfortable delivery of the vehicle to the service station. For cold welding to work, the surface must be pre-cleaned.
Application of epoxy glue
The use of such a substance is also considered a temporary method. It won't fix the crack for a long time. To achieve a good result, the plastic is pre-cleaned from the remnants of dust, grease, dirt.
How to remove glue residue
After the work is done, be sure to get rid of the glue residue. Fresh composition can be removed immediately with a napkin. The hardened substance is cut with a knife.
Common Mistakes
Inexperienced craftsmen make the following mistakes when repairing an expansion tank:
- choosing the wrong method to eliminate the damage;
- do not clean the plastic surface from dirt;
- violate procedural technology;
- failing to follow safety precautions.
Additional tips and tricks
For the repair of the expansion tank to be successful, these recommendations should be followed:
- it is best to weld the damaged area;
- a brass mesh is used as a reinforcing layer - aluminum material will not work in this case;
- It is recommended to grind, putty, prime and paint the connection joint.
A breakdown of an expansion tank is considered an unpleasant violation. It is recommended to use a soldering iron to repair the damage. As a temporary measure, it is allowed to use reliable adhesives. Two-component substances are considered a suitable option.