Cracks - Piper Malibu Meridian PA-46-500TP Airplane Maintenance Manual

(6) The patching compound is mixed in equal portions on a hard flat surface using a figure eight
motion. The damaged area is cleaned with perchlorethylene or V M & P Naphtha prior to
applying the compound. (See Figure 3.)
(7) A mechanical sander can be used after the compound is cured, providing the sander is kept in
constant motion to prevent heat buildup.
(8) For repairs in areas involving little or no shear stress, the hot melt adhesives, polyamids which
are supplied in stick form, may be used. This type of repair has a low cohesive strength factor.
(9) For repairs in areas involving small holes, indentations or cracks in the material where high
stress is apparent or where thin walled sections are used, the welding method is suggested.
(10) This welding method requires a hot air gun and ABS rods. To weld, the gun should be held to
direct the flow of hot air into the fusion (repair) zone, heating the damaged area and rod
simultaneously. The gun should be moved continuously in a fanning motion to prevent
discoloration of the material. Pressure must be maintained on the rod to ensure good
adhesion. (See Figure 4.)
(11) After the repair is completed, sanding is allowed to obtain a surface finish of acceptable
appearance.
D. Cracks: (See Figure 5.)
(1) Before repairing a crack in the thermoplastic part, first determine what caused the crack and
alleviate that condition to prevent it from recurring after the repair is made.
(2) Drill small stop holes at each end of the crack.
(3) If possible, a double plate should be bonded to the reverse side of the crack to provide extra
strength to the part.
(4) The crack should be "V" grooved and filled with repair material, such as solvent cement, hot
melt adhesive, epoxy patching compound or it should be hot air welded, whichever is
preferred.
(5) After the repair has cured, it may be sanded to match the surrounding finish.
51-70-00
PAGE 6
Apr 15/07
PIPER AIRCRAFT, INC.
PA-46-500TP, MALIBU MERIDIAN
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
Repairing of Cracks
Figure 5
6F22