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Fixing Detatched Plate Under Engine

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by LeVautRien, Nov 5, 2012.

  1. LeVautRien

    LeVautRien Member

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    First off, forgive my struggle to describe what exactly is broken, because I can't figure out what the heck the proper name is. In any case:

    On my 2004, under the engine, is a plastic cover. This was secured in part by four screws connected to the front bumper. One screw came loose (New Orleans streets can have that effect), and being the genius I am, I drove through some water that presumably pooled a bit in the now-slightly-open cover, abruptly ripping out the three remaining screws. Now if I go at any speed above about 30, the wind pushes the cover down and makes a lovely scraping sound.

    Best as I can tell, two of the points the screws attached into the bumper are ripped completely on the bumper, so my fear is that a proper repair would involve a new bumper.

    Anyone have any insight in to if the bumper would actually need replacement? If so, I'd also appreciate alternate solutions. Is this plate really necessary? I personally wouldn't mind some sort of improvised re-attachment if the bumper would need to be swapped anyway, because if that fails, I'm right back where I started anyway.

    Thanks for the help!
     
    #1 LeVautRien, Nov 5, 2012
  2. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    The proper name is "engine undercover".

    It is not "really necessary" but provides minor protection that may help the radiator and AC condenser from being damaged by road debris.

    Improvised reattachment: if the bumper attachment points are damaged, you might try using black duct tape to secure the undercover to the front bumper.
     
    #2 Patrick Wong, Nov 5, 2012
  3. LeVautRien

    LeVautRien Member

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    Engine undercover...makes sense. Thanks for some info on what exactly it does. I have to say, when it first detatched, it got stuck flipped down, and was spraying debris scooped up from the road, which was both amusing and concerning.
     
    #3 LeVautRien, Nov 5, 2012
  4. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    Try drilling all new holes through the bumper and plate and attach with zip ties.
     
    #4 edthefox5, Nov 5, 2012
  5. pjc

    pjc Member

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    Ah yes. I've "fixed" a few different bumpers with zip ties... ;) They held up surprisingly well, actually.
     
    #5 pjc, Nov 5, 2012
  6. ahmeow

    ahmeow Prius Lover

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    Just think your way/follow the advise of our members to secure the cover. No big deal.
     
    #6 ahmeow, Nov 5, 2012
  7. maestro8

    maestro8 Nouveau Member

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    Duct tape and zip ties, eh? Well, if you want that "I got a five year old to fix my car" feeling every time you go for a drive that's fine... but if not, you've got a couple other options.

    Drilling new holes is a good start, but you should finish with proper bolts. U-nuts are a common way to attach lightweight body-work, and they're cheap and readily available. In a pinch, you can use some sheet-metal screws, but they may work themselves loose over time... I'd recommend some sort of nut/bolt attachment.

    If you want to reuse your factory mount points, you can reweld the plastic... kits are available at most hardware stores. You can also epoxy some new plastic (or sheet metal) over the damage area if you're afraid of welding... but on an inconspicuous piece like your bumper, this would be a great first project!
     
    #7 maestro8, Nov 6, 2012
  8. LeVautRien

    LeVautRien Member

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    Going for an epoxy or rewelding solution does sound like a good idea, I'll admit, although I have basically no clue where to start. I do have some of the original nuts and bolts, so I can use those as a reference for what I want.

    Thanks!
     
    #8 LeVautRien, Nov 6, 2012
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