Polyethelene Hole Patch

[Sandcassle]

What's the best method for patching a couple 3/8" diameter holes below the water line on the Hustler's polyethelene body?

[LarryW]

Hello,

Have you seen the repair that evil8x8 posted? Should help out.

http://www.6x6world.com/forums/general-amphibious-atv-articles/2647-polyethelene-pe-poly-body-repair.html

[brushcutter]

I used strips cut from the edge of the tub for filler and a Matco gas mini soldering iron to fill holes in the bottom of my 950.I pre-heated the edges of the holes until they began to melt then held the filler to it and heated until it began to fuse.I then changed to a flat tip to finish fusing it together and smooth it out.Has held together fine.If needed you can work from one side and then fill the other after the hole is plugged.Be sure you don't leave any voids.

[Sandcassle]

Thanks for the help.
It's good to know that this plastic is not too hard to work with in regards to welding, melting, fusing or whatever you want to call it.
The holes I need to fill are at the trailer hitch mounting area. With somewhat limited access from the inside to do a nice job fusing plastic to fill the hole, I might first experiment with some stuff we use at work. It's call PRC 1422 and it's used primarily for sealing aircraft fuel tanks. It's adhesive ability is outstanding, it's impervious to fuel/oil and it's very flexible. Then if it doesn't work, I always have the option of melting plastic to fill the holes, which would be the most correct way to do the job.

[boncrshr]

I have not played with plastic welding, but I did use a sheet metal patch with rivets and silicone that has held up well.

[ygmir]

I also posted some "how to" pics and description in the gallery, if you need.
it's pretty easy, really. maybe grab some plastic for a practice run......

most 5 gal buckets are HDPE, also, coffee can lids....cut strips or patches, and, weld away........

good luck