Topic: Fiberglass fabric
in Forum: C3 Body
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Lifetime MemberIndianapolis, IN - USA
Joined: 9/3/2006
Posts: 2429
Vette(s): Silver 1974 Convertible - L82 4 speed
Low miles (was only 8,900 when I bought it in March 2006) - Now 54K miles. Original owner bought it as an investment for son's college expenses.
2008 Jetstream Blue Convertible
I have a project I'm planning for my 74 and will need to use fiberglass but I've never worked with it before. If I understand correctly, you can get fabric that is prep ready, then once in shape and in place, brush liquid resin over it to harden. Sounds pretty easy (although I'm sure there's a bit more to it...). Where's a good place to buy the fabric? I've seen some packages but it's always "folded" and I had read that it should always be rolled and not folded to prevent the fibers from breaking. Any good tips and tricks anyone can pass along? Thanks
I wanted a Corvette my whole life, but I never dreamed of all the wonderful people I would meet because of it!
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Marshall,
What are you making?
Not familiar with the "prepped" style. I've purchased either the woven or chopped I've purchased from the mass market. Chopped is my favorite. Key is to have a mold to apply it to unless you are doing flat surface body work. I've used "chicken wire" to make the shape I want then apply it to it. Get a box of throw away gloves from Harbor Freight or similar to keep you hands clean. The back of these motorcycle bags were squared off. I cut off the rear, formed chicken wire to the rounded shape I wanted and glassed it in and then bondo'd the low spots.
Only 34 years together
Lifetime MemberModerator
Duncanville, TX - USA
Joined: 11/8/2003
Posts: 20214
Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/
Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight"
#2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto
Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas
Depending on WHAT you are doing, the cloth stuff is not good for body panels that will show. Eventually, the cloth pattern will show thru the paint. Chopped, or "mat" is best for bodywork(imho), and it's sturdy when properly done.
If you're looking to do some underbody reinforcement stuff, the cloth will be easier, and you won't have to worry so much about final appearance.
Either form requires the proper resin/hardener mix. Ecklers would be the place for all of that stuff.
So....what's the project? Inquiring minds wanna know! 
Joel Adams
C3VR Lifetime Member #56 
My Link 
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"Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comforting to cry in a CORVETTE than in a Kia"
Lifetime MemberIndianapolis, IN - USA
Joined: 9/3/2006
Posts: 2429
Vette(s): Silver 1974 Convertible - L82 4 speed
Low miles (was only 8,900 when I bought it in March 2006) - Now 54K miles. Original owner bought it as an investment for son's college expenses.
2008 Jetstream Blue Convertible
I have molds for what the eventual shape will be. The final result will definitely be visible clearly on the body. But I am building it on a "spare" that I got off eBay so the original will still be just that. My new piece should be an easy interchange once I get it done. Sounds like I need to look for the "chopped" stuff. I'll check Ecklers, but can't imagine getting the resin shipped will be easy with all the regulations on liquid. Thoughts on where I might find either at local type places? Do body shops sell to the public ever?
I wanted a Corvette my whole life, but I never dreamed of all the wonderful people I would meet because of it!
Lifetime MemberEquinunk, PA - USA
Joined: 10/31/2007
Posts: 2465
Vette(s): 1972 conv, 4-speed, 350, 200hp, numbers match, rally wheels, war bonnett yellow w/white top. good condition, nice driver.
Ecklers sent me that type of thing. I also got some at local parts stores. NAPA stores carry most body repair products.
Gold MemberScotch Plains, NJ - USA
Joined: 1/11/2006
Posts: 241
Vette(s): 1981 Corvette Coupe, Stock, Black on Black,
4 Spd
I have found www.autobodytoolmart.com to be a go to source.
Always willing to help. You could possibly find items less expensive.
Boat repair shop or supplier would be a good source also, but where you live it's not a big boating area. Just a thought.
Dave
Lifetime Member #116
Dave's '82 
in Forum: C3 Body
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