Oil changing door we need a recall

I went with friction tape, applied full length on both sides of the hinge line, for a couple of reasons:

1. It's closer to the original condition, ie: a full width hinging crease. A couple of zip ties is just that: a couple of points of support. It's more vulnerable, the corners can snag, the holes are weak points.

2. Tape can be pulled off, leaving your cover pristine. If your cover is still ok, and you do the oil changes, and you're very careful with it (see my page one post regarding tactics for preserving it), it may stay ok. I'm loath to drill holes into a currently undamaged component.

When applying tape just make sure the plastic is clean first, press the tape firmly into contact (especially at the ends), and periodically check it. The tape on the inside is likely good forever; the outside strip corners might fray a little over time: especially at the ends. Just keep on it.

 

If there's space for tape, I'd probably use polyimide (i.e. Kapton) tape. Very durable, fireproof, chemical resistant, and extremely flexible.

 

I might have to do something like this. Mine got ripped off by a tire carcass, I might have damaged the mounting bolt hole as well though because it ripped the hinges off and I had to pull over and try to remove it (was hanging open and making a ton of noise) so I basically had to rip it out.

 

If the cover is installed to assist in keeping
the engine warm this may be part of the emissions
contol and come under warranty in that area.

al