Glassing on a FCS fin?? is it possible?

Archive 1999-2004
1

I was wondering if glassing on a FCS plastic fin would work and be able to perform. If I cut off the two (in my case one since the other one broke off and the fin won’t work anymore)knobs that go to the FCS plugs and make the fin look smooth like a glass on fin, will it work? If you are wondering, I don’t want to buy a glass on fin set $18 for a crappy fish that I like to ride when the waves suck. If that isn’t possible, I have a glass on middle fin. What are your thoughts and expereinces (if any) on this topic?

2

i used a fcs fin with busted off tabs to glass on to an old board that was missing a fin. I quickly handsanded sanded the plastic fcs fin with 100 grit, but obviously not well enough, because the glass started separating from the fin after a while. i think you can do it though - maybe use a grinder with some coarse sandpaper and make sure to rough up ALL the surface of the fin, but no guarantees. if its one of the fiberglass fcs twin twins, it should work no problem. if its a carbon lite fin, you would need to grind off the gloss layer and it should work well also.

3

Sorry, it will peal of no matter how well you sand it. The “composite fins” have nylon as the base resin. Nylon is highly chemical resistant. You just can’t get a chemical bond. Initially, it will appear to work from the physical bond. But, as soon as you start flexing the fin it will become apparent you need a chemical bond.

4

will fiberglass and resin adhere to the composite red-x fins or are they the same/similar material?

5

Red X composite fins are also made from a nylon carrier. It’s a different formulation for finish and rigidity. But, basically the same situation if you were trying to glass one on. I’m sure you can find a laminated polyester fin some where. Try getting one from a busted board.

6

I have a shitload of glass on fins that have been knocked out of various boards. I have always meant to recycle them and sometimes do. Post your e-mail address and I will contact you re: what you need. If I have some that will work, I’ll send 'em to you.

7

I have glassed on molded fins with epoxy. It can be done that way.

8

I could use a right glass on fin. I’ll check what I have here and ask around. If all else fails, I’d like to get one from you. My email is: Send me a message and title it something I will know like: swaylocks fin or something. Hope to hear from you. -Brett.