Tupperware repair

[jre258 in SoDak]

While removing the front fender to do some fork work, I noticed that there are a few cracks forming around the bolt holes. I also have a major crack in the spoiler below the radiator. I think at one time I read on here that such cracks could be repaired by using the cement used in gluing ABS sewer pipe. I think the poster even stated that he had even made some parts by using the ABS glue. If this is true, would you need to coat the damaged area with primer before applying the cement?
Jim

[SgtSlag]

I've used ABS Plastic Glue, found in the plumbing section of hardware stores, to repair a Vetter Windjammer, a plastic trunk from the early 80's, and to perform minor repairs on my Voyager XII Tupperware. It is ABS plastic dissolved within a solvent: when the solvent evaporates, only the ABS plastic is left behind. I use the cleaner/primer, before I apply the ABS Glue -- don't know if it is necessary, but I apply it anyway; it will dull the finish on the Tupperware, so proceed with caution when applying the cleaner/primer (liquid, flows like water, so watch the runs...)!

To repair cracks, apply some masking tape, across the outside surface, which can be seen, then paint the ABS Glue into the crack, building up layers, with each being allowed to dry before the next is applied, until the crack is filled in completely. Optionally, you can apply an overlay layer, around the crack, to strengthen it, but it may, or may not, work; it will also leave a raised surface inside, which may be an issue. Once the layers are fully dried, you can remove the masking tape from the outside. Try it in a hidden area, if possible, to learn how it works, and to see if it will give you results you are satisfied with.

Casting parts with it is possible, but I don't know how practical it would be. Again, it is dissolved plastic, so once the solvent evaporates, only ABS plastic will be left behind. Experimentation is king, so go ahead and give it a try. Silicone spray makes a great mold-release agent; molds will need to be fashioned out of materials resistant to the solvent used with ABS Glue -- no idea what it is, but the Internet should be able to shine some light on the subject. Cheers!