Any tips for ensuring plastic end caps stay secure in a steel project without them popping out due to heating and cooling fluctuations?
Asked by Valentino Girard 
3 months ago
Last Updated: August 27, 2024
I’m about to put a bunch of these plastic end caps on a steel project, but in the past, some of them have come loose and popped out. Not sure if it’s due to temperature changes or something else. I’m considering gluing them in with either a thick gel c-glue or construction adhesive. Anyone have any advice or stories about how to keep them in place? Thanks!
Tiny screw at the rear
A small amount of clear silicone could also work if you prefer not to drill for screws. It’s easy to replace them if needed, and there’s no risk of water seeping in.
Hmm, silicone didn’t cross my mind. I thought I needed something stickier. 🤔
Use a bit of tape to secure them in place until the silicone hardens.
Isn’t it strange that they could fall out? I struggle enough to put these things in, and once they’re in place, they’re always a pain to remove. I’m not sure about using glue, since they’re usually made of nylon and most glues won’t adhere to it. Maybe silicone would work? Have you cleaned the inside of the pipe? Removed any oils before putting these caps in?
I also found it surprising, considering how challenging it is to insert them. My theory is that if they don’t fit smoothly, the barbs on the inside might crack or break while being pushed in, resulting in a loss of their grip. Maybe I should attempt using a smaller mallet next time? 😂
Assuming you have the correct size, you can tap them in gently with a rubber mallet. However, removing them can be a bit tricky. I always struggle to take them out without damaging them. That’s why I find it surprising that you’re experiencing issues with retention.
I was thinking of trying to leave the plastic out in the sun for a while so it can warm up and become more flexible. Hopefully, this will help them slide in or mold better without damaging any of those ribs or barbs.
Maybe give a shot.👍
Warm them up so they become flexible when inserting them, and they should be okay once they cool down. If it’s really an issue, you can drill a small hole after they’re in and add a small (black head) screw for additional mechanical grip along with the friction.