C5 Urethane Bumper Repair - Split Decision

Examine the repair area to verify that it lines up correctly.

Secure the front of the repair using Scotch Auto Body Repair Tape (PN 06930) to fit both sides together as precisely as possible. This will add support while you're applying the patch material to the back of the bumper.

Using a 3M EZ Fix Flexible Patch (PN 05888), trim the patch to fit the repair, allowing a 11/2-inch overlap on all sides. If your repair includes the edge of the bumper, go beyond the edge by 11/2 inches. The excess patch can be trimmed off later.

Before affixing the patch, blow off the area with unoiled compressed air, then prepare it with Automotive Adhesion Promoter (PN 06396). Wipe the backside of the bumper where the patch will be applied, allowing a 2-inch overlap. Allow the product to dry for five minutes before continuing.

Remove the liner from the backside of the patch, keeping it as clean as possible.

Attach the patch to the prepared area, pressing it firmly; pressure will increase the bond strength. If the repair requires a bend to be made in the patch, use the heat gun to help make the patch material more pliable.

As you can see, the EZ Fix Flexible Patch makes for a very clean repair. It's also quite easy to use.

Now it's time to work on the front of the bumper. Carefully remove the tape, then clean the surface with a general-purpose adhesive cleaner to remove any oils and contaminants.

Apply a coat of Polyolefin Adhesion Promoter (PN 05907) and allow five minutes to dry. The adhesion promoter will also help with feathering during the sanding process.

Now it's time to apply the Automix EZ Sand Flexible Parts Repair material.

When using any two-part material, it's important to hold the dispensing tube vertically and remove all the air from inside the tube. This should prevent most of the pits that can form when small air pockets develop in the finished product.

Use a spreader to create a tight coat. Apply additional coats to build up the material slightly higher than the bumper cover. Allow 15 minutes for the material to dry before sanding.

Apply the Automix to the area to be repaired.

When working on a vertical surface, use a plastic bag to hold the material in place until dry.

Sanding should be done using an 80-grit dual-action sander or hand block. Use a higher-grit sandpaper to get the surface flat. If any imperfections remain, apply another coat of Adhesion Promoter and Automix EZ Sand Flexible Parts Repair Material.

When the material is level with the height of the bumper, change to 180-grit to remove the 80-grit scratches. To finish, use 320-grit to feather around the repair areas. The bumper is now ready for paint.