JB weld is just great for minor repairs. It works on more materials than it doesn’t. By that, I mean to say that it isn’t efficient on lead. However, when it comes to various types of metals, JB weld simply works like a charm. However, the topic at hand is, does JB weld work on aluminum?
Fear not, we’re about to go into the extensive details that revolve around the topic. Be sure to read attentively. So, we’re about to know the possibility and efficiency factors that JB weld has on aluminum. Let’s get started.
Contents
Does JB Weld Work on Aluminum?
To give you the short answer, yes, it does. The two-part epoxy of JB weld makes it really easy to create a strong adhesion bond between two selected metal pieces. These guys have been at it for above fifty years. Needless to say, they really do know their stuff.
However, you should know that this epoxy is better suited for minor repairs rather than extensive repair works. There are some complicated repair works that require different criteria of welding procedures entirely.
When you apply JB weld on aluminum, you should get a considerably strong bond that should last for years to come. It almost seems like an effortless way to get really awesome results.
Efficiency on Aluminum
You don’t have to take my word for it, but those who have applied JB weld on aluminum have never got upsetting results. According to proven scientific tests, the tensile strength of JB weld reaches up to 5020 psi. Now that’s pretty darn impressive.
But to reach that level of strength, you’ll have to let the epoxy cure (At least overnight). Just in case you want to know, the set-up time reaches about four to six hours at a maximum. But the curing time requires between 15-24 hours.
Once the setup and cure are completed, the repair should be flawless.
However, using this weld on weight bearing objects, the scenario will be different entirely. This actually is an issue. Not for the type of metal it’s being used on; rather this type of weld was never meant to hold a lot of weight.
To avoid problems, the epoxy has to be applied in the right situation and on the right kind of repair task. Otherwise, it won’t lead to the best results.
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How to Use JB Weld on Aluminum
Now, let’s talk a bit about the procedure at hand. By now, we’re clear about whether JB weld can be used on aluminum or not. Now, let’s talk about how to use it step by step.
- Proper cleaning is mandatory before applying JB weld on aluminum. Clean the contaminants of the surface like dirt, rust, colors, and so on.
- Make sure you clean off oil and grease as well with a solvent. Otherwise, there can be some serious problems.
- Whichever area you’re about to apply JB weld, make sure you score the aluminum on that area. Use a wire brush to get good results. For the mixture, you’ll need to have a 1 to 1 ratio of both liquids.
- The instructions on the package can really help out. Apply epoxy on the two parts and clamp them together.
- Let the bond grow strong until the cure time goes by.
- Let it stay like that for a day to get the very best results.
Best JB Weld for Aluminum
JB weld is commonly used on aluminum boats. These wield strong results in general. However, if you really want to know which JB weld will be best to work on with aluminum, here’s my recommendation.
I would strongly suggest that you try out their Marine Weld option. However, it’s mostly designed for boats that have to go through tough situations that most RV users are alien to.
The product itself is also steel reinforced and can handle temps up to 550 degrees F. Once the curing phase is complete, it becomes water resistant and resistant to acid, chemicals, and petroleum. The epoxy doesn’t weaken even when it’s submerged underwater.
With a bit of research, you might be able to find other comparable JB weld products. They really do make a solid effort to offer the best products for the consumers.
The Types of Application
There are various types of applications on aluminum possible when you’re willing to use JB weld. Let’s discuss the possible options. Shall we?
Liquid Aluminum Weld
Proper surface prep is needed before applying epoxy and actually getting a tight bond. Chaffing the ends with a flat file and using a wire brush to score the ends is a good idea. Score an inch wider from the area you’re planning to adhere to.
The bond often depends on the particular type of joint you’re trying to make. If the product has a filler in it, it can become brittle overnight. So, it’s best to be cautious about this fact.
For a Hole in Aluminum
You’ll be glad to know that one of the best applications of epoxy is fixing holes. You can easily fill the hole with the product and let it setup and cure. Once done, just tap the epoxy to the exact depth you need and bolt it back in.
Suppose, if you want a permanent fix, there’s a different way to go about it. Try applying epoxy to the bolt itself and put it back to its previous original spot. But if the hole is considerably big, you’ll want to use other solutions or weld another piece of aluminum on the hole with JB weld.
Aluminum AC Lines
Well, I’ll be absolutely honest here. JB weld isn’t actually the ideal solution for repairing AC lines. The reason is, JB weld epoxy isn’t adequate to handle the high pressure of AC lines. So, if there’s a break in your AC line, you might want to find another proper way to repair it.
Aluminum Radiators
Well, there’s a debate on this topic. Whether JB weld actually works on aluminum radiators or not doesn’t have a sure shot answer. But if you want my suggestion for it, I’d say that it’s good enough for a temporary solution. For a permanent repair, you might want to think otherwise.
Suppose you’re out boondocking, and you spot a leak in your aluminum radiator. JB weld can be a good stop gap solution till you get it to the repair house. It shouldn’t be considered as a permanent solution.
The reason behind this is that it’s hard to clean off once it cures. There are quite some hot and cold limits to the product. So, be cautious about the area of application.
Aluminum Engine Blocks
To repair aluminum engine blocks, I’d recommend that you follow the instructions I’ve given below.
- Firstly, you have to make sure that the crack in your engine block is free from paint, rust, and liquids.
- Clean the crack with a wire brush. After that, use rubbing alcohol to wipe it up. Remember, you have to let the alcohol dry before you attempt to apply the epoxy.
- Now create a mixture of 1 to 1 ratio of hardener and resin until they become of the same color.
- Use a scraper and put the epoxy onto the cracked area.
- Press hard. Make sure you get the mixture to the back of the crack and really seal things up.
- Now take a day for the curing process.
- Then, start the motor, and everything should be operational (Provided you did everything right.)
There are reports of people getting different results. So, I should warn you that there isn’t an absolute certainty that this procedure will work. The size of the crack can play a good role in the possibility of success, to be honest.
Aluminum Oil Pan
Just as in the situation before, the success of this one too depends on the width of the crack you’re trying to deal with. However, the biggest issue concerning this type of repair is the cure time. Once it’s cured, JB weld is proven to be resistant to petroleum products.
Just make sure that the oil pan you’re trying to repair is fully clean. It won’t adhere well if oil is present when you’re using it. After a 24-hour cure time, you should be ready to run your vehicle once again.
Aluminum Bike Frame
Aluminum bike frames are weight bearing materials. So, long story short, it’s not a good idea to use JB weld in this case. You’ll be putting yourself at risk if you do so.
Closing Things Up
I believe that’s about it. I’ve given you all the information you need about the application of JB weld on aluminum. It doesn’t work in every case. However, it bears great results when too much pressure isn’t involved.
Make sure you follow the instructions I gave on each scenario, and you shouldn’t be facing any problems. JB weld works best after proper curing is done. So, patience is key in every case.
Now, it’s time to say farewell. I really hope I helped you out with this one. Adios!
