Hi Guys
The bubble canopy for my P-47 that I'm working on for the GB,is broken. it is split into 2 pieces along its length.
Can this be repaired?
and if so I assume that I'll need to wet sand and polish? and sand and polish and sand and polish.etc.

Chreers

Chris

This is tough. I'm thinking that any adhesive that you use would leave a line or mark of some kind. As a last resort, you first should not touch the broken edge. Then, dip both sides into Future (or Klear or whatever it's called where you are). Then put the two pieces together on a piece of waxed paper or aluminum foil with a "release, non stick" side and let it set for at least 24 hours. The 'Future' dries hard, so maybe it will hold the two sides together. Since it is super clear, maybe it will not leave much of a visible line. I've never tried this, but maybe it will work. I would follow the advice of those more experienced with this problem first, then my advice. Also, if my technique works, I would sand or play w ihe canopy at all after it is stuck together. Treat it delicately, I think. The other alternative is to find one of those vacuform canopies from Squadron or some other supplier. I think Nige (Lampie) would be your best authority on what to do. Maybe some of this might trigger a thought or solution.

I tried,
Matt

Hi,

If what Matt suggested doesn't work, you could try smash-moulding the canopy after glueing the pieces together. I tried this recently and it worked really well. Read this page from the Fw190 thread (it starts about half way down): Smash-moulded canopy

Hope this helps,

Mike.

I have had a similar issue with a Liberator. The smash moulding works great but I have also used Tenax 7-R on the seams of the clear parts and then gentle put them together, It is best if you can put them together very slowly and preferably on a flat surface. The tenax will run the entire seam. It's almost like sweat soldering. The tenax is clear and you could only see the seam if you are looking for it. I would practice on some spare parts before trying this on your first run.

Chris -

You could try a method I have used in the past to avoid masking canopies.

Glue the broken canopy back together (strongest cement you can get) and polish the inside of it as smooth as possible. It doesn't matter if you ruin the clear part.

Fill the canopy with plaster of paris and stick a small dowel or piece of sprue in it so you can get it out. Don't forget to spray it with a mold release - I've used light cooking spray in the past. Let it cure overnight.

Once you have the mould, heat a thin sheet of clear thermoform plastic and drape it over the mould. It's best to make 3 or 4 in case you ruin one.

After you have the new "bubbles" drill out the clear part of the original canopy so that all you have left is the frame. Slip the "bubble inside the frame and you should have a fairly nice canopy. You'll have to spend some time trimming to get a really good fit.

You may have to thin the frame (this is the trickiest part of the whole thing) so the frame won't look too thick. But the crack in the frame will be painted and should be easier to cover.

After you get an acceptable fit, you can paint the frame separate from the clear "bubble, then glue it into the frame with whatever method you use far attaching clear parts.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

Steve

Steve

That is a great technique. This shows the value of this site. There's a lot of experience, and a lot of sharing of tips. I would not have thought of that. I can imagine that this would also make a great looking canopy. Thanks for the post, I learned something.

Matt

And.......... there's NO masking in the whole process!!!