papier mache for aeromods?

[katiep]

I was trying to think of pliable materials that might make certain mods easier. For example, I have insets for fog lights, but no fog lights. I could make some papier mache, glop it in there until it hardens, and then glue it to the plastic inset. I could use duct tape for this, but I don't want it to sink in or come off. Using papier mache would mean that I could mold it, let it set, then take it out and spray paint it so it's not as conspicuous.

I haven't used the stuff in years and years, but I remember making a paste from something like glue and water, soaking newspaper in it, and then layering it or squishing it around a mold.

Do you think I would have any problems with this around the front bumper at all? I would imagine it'd melt or catch fire if I used it to cover the front grill.

[Old Tele man]

...it's cooking flour and water.

...great in sunny weather, but gets kind limp and loose in humid weather...especially rains!

[brucepick]

Maybe if you give it a waterproof skin? Of course there's always the back side, if that is still exposed to moisture it would probably get soggy one day.

[Old Mechanic]

I like the expanding foam isulation. Pile it on and use a hot wire to shape it. If you don't want it to stick to a surface spray it with one of those anit stick sprays for cooking pans.

regards
Mech

[Patrick]

Originally Posted by katiep

I was trying to think of pliable materials that might make certain mods easier. For example, I have insets for fog lights, but no fog lights. I could make some papier mache, glop it in there until it hardens, and then glue it to the plastic inset. I could use duct tape for this, but I don't want it to sink in or come off. Using papier mache would mean that I could mold it, let it set, then take it out and spray paint it so it's not as conspicuous.

I haven't used the stuff in years and years, but I remember making a paste from something like glue and water, soaking newspaper in it, and then layering it or squishing it around a mold.

Do you think I would have any problems with this around the front bumper at all? I would imagine it'd melt or catch fire if I used it to cover the front grill.

If you use Titebond II or III it might give you some water resistance. It shouldn't catch fire if you use it on the grille since that is normally way below the ignition temperature of paper. It might be a good use for the output from your crosscut shredder.

[Kodak]

If you're interested in fog light covers, a user on here did a similar mod to his pickup. You might be interested in the thread: 06 Canyon fog light covers. Sounds like it requires some skill with a heat gun though, so I'd be very careful if you plan on trying it.

Sorry I have no paper mache input.

[kach22i]

If you are just looking for a gap or opening filler as a temp backer which can be pulled out after glassing, how about some large sponges form the dollar store?

Cram them in there, and pull them out of there when done. It should tear off the outer layer of sponge.

I have not tried this myself, but have been thinking about it.

Expanding foam insulation, I've used it and now try to stay away from using it - long story. It can be a disaster, enough said.

[Bill in Houston]

You could spray the whole plug with paint or clear sealant to help waterproof it.

[3-Wheeler]

I would shape some styrofoam inserts to fit into that space.

Expanding foam in my experience is just that... expanding foam.... and it keeps expanding for about one month.... especially when the sunlight heats it up.

Styrofoam on the other hand does not expand any appreciable amount and can be sealed by various means.

If you use a water based glue to hold it in, make sure water can not get in there.

Jim.

[lunarhighway]

my first aeromods where dense cardboard (the kind you find on the back of notepads etc) proofed with stonechip paint. worked well for a while, and where even fairly impact resistant.

it holds up well enough for long term testing, but i'm not sure if i'll survive longer than a year