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tncean · Joined: 26 Feb 2005 Posts: 1652 Location: Chattanooga, Tn.

Have noticed crack that has started to lengthen. Read that it may be best to 1. drill a small hole at each end of the crack. 2. clean the area with something to remove all oils, etc, 3. Fill with silicone, then paint with a vinyl, or use a silicone based vinyl repair that is pre-colored. 4. texture the repair before it dries.

Drilling the hole is to help stop the splitting. Silicone will expand and contract well. I'm thinking something like vinegar or ammonia as a cleanser?
Not sure what would be best for texturizing?

Input welcome...

tncean

85-325e · Joined: 30 Jun 2002 Posts: 4712 Location: Southampton, NY

I've gotten very good at fixing these babies... supposedly, the small hole will stop the crack by distributing the stresses.

I take plastic epoxy, black, and rub it in with my finger, smooth it out, then park the car towards the sun. The hot sun makes the dash material expand, bringing the crack together while it cures. The fast curing epoxy is better. make sure you rub all of the excess out with your finger and you'll retain the texture from underneath.
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Cosmo - 1985 BMW 325e, Single Owner, 265,000+ ORIGINAL miles and still going strong! But now on the East Coast and the salt air corrosion is eating my beautiful car alive... Sad

beejay · Joined: 18 Nov 2002 Posts: 1158 Location: Eastern, Pa

I've have one of these kits:
http://www.amazon.com/Permatex-81781-Style-Leather-Repair/dp/B0007TQWK6

I've had good and bad results. Mostly on motorcyce seats which are soft and a little harder to fix and hide. it's all trial and error. Patience is a virtue for a nice job.
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Bob
92 325ic gone Sad

14 BRZ ltd
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