About
The PHX airframe is designed to be lightweight, rugged, and user repairable. Most damage to the airframe can be repaired by the user with a few simple tools.
JB Weld
A tube of JB Weld Plastic Bonder epoxy is provided with every PHX in the field support kit (FSK). This epoxy works well for repairing cracks, cuts, or other such damage to the foam. It also works well for adhering other plastic components to the foam.
For Best Results
Mix the epoxy thoroughly with a 1:1 ratio.
Clean the surface of the area being bonded.
Remove dust and dirt with a damp towel (water) and allow to dry.
Remove any oils from the surface with an alcohol (isopropyl) wipe and allow to dry. This is not necessary but is recommended.
Apply the bonder to the area of repair with 100% surface adhesion.
Apply the bonder between the faces of the items being bonded together.
Applying the bonder to the surface or seam of the items does not make a structurally sound bond.
Remove excess epoxy from the surface(s).
Excess epoxy on the surface(s) reduces aerodynamic efficiency and often does not improve the bond strength.
Remove the excess epoxy with an edge (such as a razor blade or popsicle stick) or with an alcohol (isopropyl) wipe.
Secure the area being bonded.
If two parts are being adhered back together use packing or masking tape to hold the pieces together/in place.
Once the epoxy has cured, carefully remove the tape in pure shear if possible to avoid damaging the surface finish of the foam. This is not required but is recommended.
Tape
Gaffers Tape
10ft of black gaffers tape is provided with each PHX. The gaffers tape is good for quickly fixing small cracks, peeling, and holes in the foam while in the field.
The gaffers tape also works well as an anti-abrasion guard for the parts of the PHX that scrape the ground during landing.
Gaffers tape is not recommended as a long term structural repair solution.
Packaging Tape
Clear packaging tape can also be useful in repair of the PHX. It provides a smooth and clear surface finish for temporary repairs without adding significant weight to the aircraft.
Clear packaging tape is not recommended for any structural repairs.
Packaging tape is better suited as a repair aid when using the plastic bonder epoxy.
