Broken console lid

[Stephane Bolduc]

ST : 2001, leather, gold with beige int.

Short story : I need a console lid, but I don't want to pay 120$.



Long story : The top of the console lid was a little cracked (looks like leather, but must by vinyl). I bough some very similar material at a fabric store (1.42$ bought me enough material for 2 covers...).



I unscrewed the bottom lid (black panel), removed the tacks and "copied" the top to the new material. Cut it and I was ready for install.



THEN, I realized that my stapler (which I though would work with anything) is not able to make it through the semi-transparent plastic on the back. Second problem, ALL and I mean it, ALL the wholes that were holding the little black screws of the bottom of the lid broke. If they were not already, they did when removing the screws or just by touching them.



The FL sun might have been too much heat for that kind of plastic.



So now I have no choice, I need the entire lid, because I couldn't put the black under cover back without the screw holes. I could always try to make new holes.....



I shopped around and the best I found was 120$ for the lid. This is ridiculous; like I said, only cost me 1.42 for the material to cover 2 lids. What else is there; 2 plastic piece, 7-8 screws, a dozen tack and a cushion. In my book, that comes up to less than 5$ cost. I would pay 40$, but not 120$.



Any idea where I can find one ? And most important; if these screw holes are the same; how long will it takes before they break again ?

 

[Dana OBrien]

Is there any way to fabricate a new piece out of wood or metal to replace the broken one? You would only see it when you opened. The only issue would be gettingthe hinge to attach to it.

 

[Brian Teitell]

If you check on ebay i have seen them for about $50.

 

[Stephane Bolduc]

Thanks for the link. This is not the part I have a problem with; it the part that the one you pointed attach to; the other plastic part that receives the screw.



Dana, mine is already appart. I'm a little bit handy, but I really don't see how I could make one.



A few weeks ago, I asked that guy (the ebay auction above) if he had what I was looking for. He has it and he's the cheapest for the whole thing at 120$. Dealer was 10-15$ more. But again, I am not willing to pay that. I'll try salvage, since I only want the plastic lid part, I can redo the top in beige (I still have one already cut-out). I will also need a stapler that works through thick plastic.

 

[Raser x]

If it helps any motorcross shop should have a pnuematic stapler that should go through whatever plastic you have. They use them to install aftermarket seat covers. Since you are go getter just ask them to help. I applaude your effortsefforts anyway.



Raserx :lol:

 

[Gerald Pierce]

Steph, I just redid mine today and insted of staples, I used hot glue. We'll see how it works out.

 

[Stephane Bolduc]

Cool, let me know if the glue works. I was suppose to finish that this weekend, but my house got broken into, so I was kinda busy....

 

[Thomas Rogers]

Instead of hot-glue anyone consider using that putty-epoxy stuff that you can buy at Home Depot and elsewhere...one side grey, the other black, bring them together and viola. I have heard it called plastic weld, etc????



It is supposed to be STRONG!



TJR

 

[Jenn D]

That plastic weld stuff that TJR is referring to is amazing to say the least. We've used it on a lot of plastic repairs including the shaft on an old trolling motor. I'm convinced the plastic weld is a stronger bond than the original setup.

 

[Thomas Rogers]

Yeah, Jenn, that's why I recommended it.



I have used hot glue for such applications in the past (kids riding toys, bike seats, etc) and NEVER had good results...the end product seems too pliable. But that plastic weld epoxy SEEMS amazing!



I have to go out and break something now just to have an excuse to use it!



TJR

 

[Gerald Pierce]

I just used the hot glue to hold the vinyl/pleather in place untill I could put the mounting ring back on.... the ring should hold it in place.



It seems to work good, the armrest is installed in the truck again, we'll get a final evaluation once it gets warm here again (6 months).

 

[Stephane Bolduc]

Update : Fixed!



I brang it to a local store where they recover furniture and specialize in cars. It took them 3 minutes to staple it (looks like new). I gave them 10$.



Total cost : 11.42$



While waiting, I looked at pictures of other work they did (entire car). I am now sold on two tones leather seats. I have beige leather right now and was thinking of redoing them in the spring.