Best way to repair Bakelite?

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

I have a question for you ,

I got a Lionel LW transformer that looks like it fell from the sky. The case is cracked but not broken apart. What would be a good glue to repair it? I have repaired everything else and it works as it should but I would like to firm up the case before I put it back on. I plan on using this transformer for accessories

I was thinking of sanding the bakelite and using two ton, slow dry epoxy on the inside of the case to help hold it together. Have any of you done something like this???

Thanks,

2

I’ve used epoxy on old Lionel HO locos to repair cracked/broken shells. I’ve also used it on an old bakelite telephone with success.

3

Use some CA / super glue to bleed into the crack(s) by capillary action, then your idea of epoxy reinforcement. That should give a good mend.

4

I had a Flyer Transformer with cracks and I did the CA into the cracks and sanded and buffed the area smooth. Still holding strong after 10 years.

5

I’d use epoxy on the backside, then use JB Weld to smooth any crack on the outside. You can sand the JB Weld so it fills the crack completely. Then you can color the JB Weld, for a black transformer shell, a magic marker works great. I’ve fixed 022 switch covers and control cases with JB Weld, then colored them with a magic marker, you can barely see the repair if you look close.

6

Great ideas guys, I ended up sanding the back side and putting on two coats of epoxy. That seems like it will do the job.

Thanks again for you replies.