OEM Rack - Broken Cover

[Mikk469]

I know there are a bunch of threads out there on the cracking/breaking issues at the front of the oem roof racks. I decided to be different and break the cover off the rear.

I don't see myself spending $750 for a complete new rail, so I'm looking at repair options.

Do I have any chance epoxy or plastic weld would hold? Anyone know what type of plastic these are made of?

I'm thinking I should probably attach it to the top cover that comes off. More surface area to put together.

On the plus side, here's some pictures if anyone wanted to know what's going on under the cover of the rear clamping mechanism.

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[5GENIDN]

Not sure about what plastic those are... I am thinking an ABS formulation. I would use a solvent weld.... (ABS glue)...

 

[Emilyblanks]

We just welded the exact same piece from the opposite side back on today. We shall see how well it holds up. I am still a bit frustrated that a cheap plastic part that can be removed from the side rail requires the purchase of the entire rail to replace.

 

[Dialtone]

Not sure about what plastic those are... I am thinking an ABS formulation. I would use a solvent weld.... (ABS glue)...

Agreed. If it's some type of thermoplastic you can possibly weld it. If it's a thermoset plastic it's more challenging. Thermosets usually contains fibers. Reminds me of tiger hair in fiberglass. Given its environment I'd lean towards a thermoset for this latch. Like any plastic UV is not their friend. Simply painting or overcoating them with paint or plastic dip helps extend their life.
Long story short. There's a bazillion types of plastic. You need to know what you have to bond it properly. Given the very narrow binding surfaces you have to work with I'd suspect the strength of any repair without mechanical support. Like epoxying in a piece of flat bar stock on the under side. I wish you luck for sure

 

[CarGuy]

JB Weld should work. Consider laying a thin layer of fiberglass on the inside to strengthen it.

 

[Glade Runner]

You can’t buy just the part, seriously?

WTF Ford?

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