A YouTuber has shown a simple way to repair a damaged plastic gear using a hot glue mould and resin casting, saving the need to replace the entire part.
The first step is to use a hobby tool to create a v-shaped slot in the damaged gear, making sure it is deep enough to remove most of the damaged gear, but not affecting the teeth of the gear.
A mould is then created from hot glue, a plastic card and WD-40, which is then used to create the replacement part using a resin with a metal staple added for strength.
Once cured, the mould is removed and the repaired gear is ready for rework to make it fully functional again.
This method is cheaper and quicker than 3D printing a replacement gear, or purchasing a new one.