1. Home
  2. Autos
  3. Auto Repair

How To Repair Your Inflatable Car

By , About.com Guide

2 of 2

Repairing the Inflatable Car Body

Step-by-step DIY inflatable car repair

Follow these steps to repair your inflatable Whisper.

NRS
1. Cut the patch to extend 2" from all sides of the hole. Approximately 4" x 6", for a 2" cut. Round the corners -- square corners are more likely to catch and peel.

2. Trace the area of the patch on the damaged surface.

3. Using 180 grit sandpaper or a rasp, buff the damaged area and the backside of the patch. DO NOT buff down to the point where the threads are visible.

4. Clean the buffed surfaces with a lint free towel and Toluene. Its use is important for achieving a good glue bond.

5. After the surfaces have thoroughly dried, apply a thin layer of Hypalon® Adhesive to both surfaces, using the stiff bristle brush in the lid.
Clifton Hypalon® Adhesive works well as a one-part glue. However, the addition of Clifton Accelerator to the adhesive significantly increases bond strength and chemical and heat resistance. Carefully measure the volumes of Adhesive and Accelerator; using too much Accelerator will actually weaken the repair bond.

6. After the first layer of glue is tacky apply another thin second layer of adhesive to both surfaces. Do not use your bare fingertip to test for tackiness. Fingers contain oils that will be left behind and effect the bonding quality of a repair job.

7. Repeat Step 6, applying a third thin layer of adhesive to both surfaces.

8. Once the third coat is tacky, join the two surfaces together. Make sure to place the patch in the correct area. Clifton Hypalon® Adhesive is a contact cement, so once the surfaces have contacted they cannot be moved.

9.Once the two surfaces are pressed together, apply vigorous pressure with the roller. Focus on the center and work outward.

10. Use a lint free towel dampened with Toluene to wipe up any excess glue expelled from the patch edges while rolling.

11. Allow the patch to cure, then re-inflate and drive on!

Special thanks to NRS and Hypalon for the great info!

Explore Auto Repair
About.com Special Features

How to Inspect a Used Car

Stay safe and save time by following these tips before driving a used car. More >

New and Redesigned Cars for 2010

Discover the hottest cars for the 2010 calendar year. More >

  1. Home
  2. Autos
  3. Auto Repair
  4. Fix It Yourself!
  5. How to Repair Your Inflatable Car - Whisper Inflatable Car Body Repair

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.