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I have a Frigidaire French-door refrigerator with a broken handle. I've identified the part, and it's $47 to replace (plus tax and shipping). Being cheap, I'd like to try to repair rather than replace it. It's a clean break at both ends, with decent surface area and a snug friction fit when inserted in place - a good candidate for glue.

I found these relevant and useful answers: - Identifying Type Plastic - best glue for ABS kitchen appliance

Since identifying plastics is tricky and requires a flame test, my question is: Can I try different glues in sequence (until I get a good bond) without messing up my material?

I propose to try Isocyanate (superglue) first and if I don't get a good bond go on to ABS primer, and/or PVC primer. Suggestions welcomed!

jbbenni
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4 Answers4

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A "decent surface area" would lead me to drill and pin it using some metal dowels as well as using glue.

That should help spread the stress caused by using it and make the repair last longer.

Solar Mike
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5

It seems like the "trail and error" approach is not smart. I like the suggestion to request prop 65 MSDS for the part, if there is one available.

Best practical suggestion came from elsewhere: apply a tiny test patch where it won't show and won't affect the joint, just to see if the selected glue/solvent/expoxy will bond.

If the test patch works, then use that material on the mating surfaces. If not, try another bonding agent on another test area. Check Epoxy, then solvent, and if all else fails carefully heat the surfaces until softened and fuse/weld them.

jbbenni
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3

I have had limited success with super glue on pieces that get frequent loading (knobs, handles, latches, etc). I have had decent success with epoxies rated for use with plastics. Coat all the mating surfaces with epoxy. Tape, C-clamp or some how affix the handle in place. Make sure you see epoxy seeping out of the entire seam. Blend the excess into a smooth seam similar to what caulking would look like. The idea is complete coverage without leaving any gaps that can cause stress cracks later.

mikes
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2

Look into epoxy glue mixes such as:

enter image description here

or

enter image description here

You can read the package or call the company to check if it will work on your specific plastic.

MonkeyZeus
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