Fan Shroud Restore

[COPO 70 RS/Z28]

I have two fan shrouds. One has a good top & bottom (top has the dreaded Caution Fan) the other is correct used and the top is in excellent shape (No Caution Fan)but the bottom has a crack.

Question,

The pieces appear to be held together by staples. Are the staples the only positive connection between the two pieces of are they also glued or butt welded? I want to try to separate them and put together a correct shroud.

Also does anyone have any suggestions for new staples or other for the reassembly???

Thanks

[DarrenX33]

Good question Carl.. I also would like to know how to repair a shroud that has an unwanted screw hole in it..

[CamarosRus]

Carl, The two halves of the 70+ Small Block fan shrouds are ONLY stapled together.

I have never tried to make my own staples........but have read where others have taken "wire" and done so....

Hopefully someone else can offer specific instructions.

[ORIGLS6]

Check with Dru. We had a plastic tank here in the plant that developed a leak. We contacted a local body man who brought in a "Plastic Welder" and repaired the tank. If I recall correctly he had different types, sizes and colors of "rods" he could use for various applications. Seems like he told me they also repaired the plastic bumper covers in some cases. Might be worth looking into.

[CamarosRus]

Darren, I dont think filling the screw hole will be that big of a challenge. As has been mentioned "welding" or using a catalized product will solve that problem.

I think that refinishing the surface is the difficult part.

Coming up with a paint that simulates the "LOOK" of the OEM plastic is the challenge.

Jeff Betz has detailed instructions, when he refinished the A/C firewall "suitcase" on his 77 Z-28 resto. His methods and techniques, however didnt have to deal with covering the filling in of a hole.

[Bad Brad]

Have you tried to fill the hole with a small piece of plastic (same material) as the fan shroud. Then use some MEK to soften it up and weld itself in the hole then lightly sand it and polish the plastic.

[Unreal]

I used stainless wire to make staples for my splash shields. They are somewhat more shiny than original steel, but they will not rust. Depends on what you want for your shroud. Too shiny vs rusty in short order

[COPO 70 RS/Z28]

I've been told that suitable staples can be found in 67-69 inner fender dust shield kits.

I also seem to remember talking to 70 copo at the last SCR about painting my existing shroud but I cant remember what he said??

Dang

[Mr70]

That's true,but wire is round and not what they originally used in those areas.
Staples are flat & cornered.If you want to replace a staple with a wire,understand that certain juding circles will notice this and deduct for it,IF one plans on having it judged.
Not meant to nit pick,just want to make some aware so they aren't surprised later on & have to revisit this issue again.