Cutting GRP

[Johno]

Well I've not worked with GRP before so I'm not sure what is the best method to cut the hole out in my nosecone





Also if I make a mistake how do I repair the gelcoat?

[wylliezx9r]

Slitting disc on an angle grinder. Then tidy up with a sanding bit on a Dremel. Well that's howi did mine. Horrible stuff to cut mind you, make sure you wear a mask
Using above method I didn't damage any gel coat, obviously cut from the gel coat in.

[wylliezx9r]

Which body work is that by the way?

[Johno]

Originally Posted by wylliezx9r

Which body work is that by the way?

Hi there....
It's an AGM bodykit...
Very robust in construction TBH with returns on the front and rear of the bonnet so should be able to get some tight fitment between the nosecone and scuttle.
The scuttle has a intergraded front firewall with a protrusion just below where the bonnet flange sits so you will not see a complete vertical gap from the side (does that make sense?). Same with the nosecone as well.

[robo]

The method I use on f/g is to mask up the area to cut and mark your lines on the masking tape. Cut the f/g with a cengar saw http://www.cengar.co.uk/pages/e-range-JP901.html leaving about 3mm from the finished line and dress the cut back with one of those sanding rolls http://greens-garage.com/images/drumsander1.jpg working along the length of the cut being carefull not to flick the gell coat off by turning the drum roll against the line. Works for me. have a couple of practice stabs at it in the middle of the panel thats coming out.

Bob

[TSM Locost]

Done a search on LCB, general opinion seems to be, Jigsaw with very fine blade, Dremmel, powerfile, some say angry grinder :-(

Just found this, use a jigsaw fitted with an abrasive blade, (not a saw blade).

Whatever you chose protect with loads of masking tape.

Must pop round one day.

[SeriesLandy]

I used an angle grinder with a 1mm slitting disc. Worked fine for me. Also cut from the gel coat surface and a bit of masking tape will help.
Also to cut a perfectly straight line I clamped a cheap steel rule(wilkinsons 40p ish) and cut against it with the grinder.

[baz-r]

grit face jigsaw blades work well, use an old hoover to stop dust going everywhere, i find for afterdark jobs a humdrum hacksaw is quiet cuts well and no chipping if you keep the angle low.

[Wynand]

Originally Posted by SeriesLandy

I used an angle grinder with a 1mm slitting disc.

+1

Never try to wipe the fiberglass dust off you with hands or rag Use compress air...

[robo]

Dont forget the dustmask and protective goggles , if you can get one of those all in one paper overalls with the hood even better. The stuff is an irritant.

Bob