(5) Let patch dry for approximately one hour before any additional work is performed.
(6) Hole, etc, is then filled with repair material. A slight overfilling of repair material is suggested to
allow for sanding and finishing after repair has cured. If patching compound is used, repair
should be made in layers, not exceeding a 1/2 inch in thickness at a time, thus allowing
compound to cure and insuring a good solid buildup of successive layers as required.
F. Stress Lines: (Refer to Figure 8.)
(1) Stress lines produce a whitened appearance in a localized area and generally emanate from
severe bending or impacting of material. (Refer to Figure 9.)
(2) To restore material to its original condition and color, use a hot air gun or similar heating device
and carefully apply heat to affected area. Do not overheat material.
G. Painting the Repair:
(1) An important factor in obtaining a quality paint finish is proper preparation of repair and
surrounding area before applying any paint.
(2) It is recommended that parts be cleaned prior to painting with a commercial cleaner or a
solution made from one-fourth cup of detergent mixed with one gallon of waer.
(3) Paint used for coating thermoplastic can be either lacquers or enamels depending on which is
preferred by repair facility or customer. (See Note.)
NOTE: It is extremely important that solvent formulations be considered when selecting a
paint, because not all lacquers or enamels can be used satisfactorily on
thermoplastics. Some solvents used in paints can significantly affect and degrade
plastic properties.
(4) Another important matter to consider is that hard, brittle coatings that are usually best for
abrasion resistance should not be used in areas which incur high stress, flexing or impact.
Such coating may crack, thus creating a weak area.
THE NEW PIPER AIRCRAFT, INC.
PA-32-301FT / 301XTC
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
PAGE 12
Jun 1/03
4D16
51-00-00