Mach5 Tabs Gen 1

These prototypes are designed as a quick and easy repair solution for broken connection points used on car bumpers, panels, and other components. They have been designed in various shapes and sizes to accommodate a range of situations.

As prototypes they’re not the prettiest, but they’ll get the job done. Made with a laser-cut thermoplastic composite and 3M™ VHB™ Tape, Mach5 Tabs are lightweight, strong, and durable. Future versions will be die cut for a clean finish.

What are Tabs?

Connection points—aka fasteners, clips, notches—are diverse and include snap-on, screw-on, and push-in types. They’re essential for maintaining the integrity and alignment of vehicle parts, but many are made of plastic and tend to break with light impact.

Traditional fixes include cold welding, plastic welding, and epoxy resin—all of which are tedious and messy.

Our goal in creating Mach5 Tabs is to provide a straightforward, easy-to-install repair solution.

On this page

Support

For assistance or questions:

black and white technical drawing of a Mach5 tab showing the 3M tape

Join our Prototype Program

Want to help develop the newest Mach Five products?

Join our Prototype Program and receive a sample box of 25 tabs. Use them, test them, try to break them!

Your participation and feedback is invaluable to product improvement. Once you’ve tried our Mach5 Tabs we invite you to fill out our tester survey.

Please submit your contact info if you’re interested in joining. We’ll only email you regarding the program.

VIP Status

As a thank you for completing the survey you will receive VIP Status which includes:

Preferred pricing

Priority customer support

Mach Five merchandise discount

Mach5 Tab Types

Tab A Mach5 Tab A outline. Square-ish with one curved corner. Round hole near the curved corner.
Tab B Mach5 Tab B outline. A rectangle tab with four holes spaced out along one of the longer sides. Two corners are rounded.
Tab C Mach5 Tab C outline. A rectangular tab with two rounded corners on a short side. The round hold is near the rounded corners.
Tab D Mach5 Tab D outline. A rectangular tab with two rectangular slots for the holes near the top of one of the long sides.
Tab E Mach5 Tab E outline. A long, thin rectangular tab with three round holes aligned to a far side of the tab. That side has rounded corners.
Mach5 Tab E photoMach5 Tab E outline

How to Use Mach5 Tabs

Select the tab that best matches the connection point you are replacing.

A Mach5 tab is held up next to an existing plastic bumper tab to show how to select for the correct replacement tab size and shape.

Determine the tab’s ideal placement by aligning the tab’s hole/slot with the original connector’s hole/slot.

Placement tips:

  • Ensure there’s enough space around the hole/slot for the adhesive tape to be fully applied.
  • Be mindful how parts will line up with the tab in place. Components should fit together without gaps or misalignments.

Tabs can be trimmed for best fit using heavy-duty scissors.

A Mach5 tab is held up next to an existing plastic bumper tab to show how to select for the correct replacement tab size and shape. There is a dotted line with a scissor icon on the Mach5 tab that shows the desired tab shape after trimming.

Preparation of the application surface is essential for proper installation and maximum bond strength. The ideal surface is smooth and clean.

  1. Refine: Remove or trim the original damaged connection point.
  2. Smooth: Remove surface irregularities, rust, and other debris by lightly abrading the area where the tab will be applied.
  3. Clean: Clean the surface with a 50:50 mix of isopropyl alcohol and water to remove surface contaminants.

  1. Remove film: Peel off the red 3M film and attach the tab to the prepped surface in your desired location.
  2. Apply pressure: Apply firm pressure and ensure the entire tape area is bonded to the surface.
  3. Reconnect: When the tab is secure, reconnect the applicable automotive component.

For best adhesion:

  • Apply when ambient temperature is 70° to 100 °F (21° to 38° C).
  • Use firm application pressure of at least 15 psi (100 kPa). Pressing firmly with your thumb or hands should be sufficient.

Adjustments: If the tab must be adjusted after application, do so immediately. Multiple re-applications may weaken the bond.

Additional information: 3M™ VHB™ Commercial Vehicle Tape CV62F (3M site)

A Mach5 Tab is being pressed into the bumper with firm thumb pressure where it will be bonded.

Tester Survey

Your feedback is vital to the product improvement process. The survey will take approximately 5 minutes to complete.

Disclaimer

Mach5 Tabs do not come with a warranty. These units have been distributed for the purpose of gathering feedback to improve product quality. Mach Five Motors is not liable for any damages or issues that may arise from the use of Mach5 Tabs.