DIY! How to Fix Broken Coil Ears on an Metal Detecting Coil

If you’ve been swinging the Minelab Equinox long enough, chances are your coil ears may eventually crack or break — and, let’s be honest, it usually happens after the warranty runs out. Don’t panic — this blog post walks you through how I repaired my 11" Equinox coil ears using Plastic Bonder JB Weld, a strong two-part epoxy.

It’s a simple, inexpensive fix — and I’ve included photos for each step (which you’ll find below).

What You’ll Need:

Plastic Bonder JB Weld (2-part epoxy for plastic)
Toothpick or small stick (for mixing and applying)
Cardboard (for coil ear spacing and mixing)
Rubbing alcohol (for cleaning)
Paper towel or cloth
Optional: painter’s tape or clamp
Gloves (recommended)

Step 1: Clean the Area Thoroughly

Before doing any repairs, clean around the broken ear with rubbing alcohol to remove dirt, oils, and dust. Let it dry completely.

Step 2: Mix the Plastic Bonder JB Weld

Squeeze equal parts of the resin and hardener onto a piece of cardboard. Mix them well using a toothpick until the color is uniform (about 1–2 minutes)

Only mix what you can use within 5 minutes — JB Weld Plastic Bonder begins setting fairly quickly.

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Step 3: Position and Align the Broken Ear

Carefully place the broken ear back in its original position. I cut a small piece of cardboard to act as a spacer between the ears, which helped keep everything straight and evenly spaced.

If you like, use painter’s tape or a small clamp to lightly hold everything together while applying the epoxy.

Step 4: Apply the Epoxy

Use the toothpick to apply the mixed JB Weld to both sides of the crack and around the base of the broken ear. Be generous but precise — avoid clogging the coil bolt hole.

You can also smooth the epoxy with a gloved finger or tool for a cleaner look.

Step 5: Let It Cure

Now let it sit. While JB Weld starts to set in about 15–30 minutes, a full cure takes 24 hours.
Don’t move, stress, or test the coil during this time.

Step 6: Remove Spacer and Test Fit

Once fully cured, remove the cardboard spacer. Check that the ears are aligned and the coil bolt fits snugly.

If there are any rough edges, you can lightly sand or trim them down.

Windy Tips:

This repair is perfect if you're out of warranty and need a reliable fix without buying a new coil.
Want to prevent future breaks? Consider installing a coil ear stiffener, using a padded coil cover or replace your coil hardware and rubber washers.
Store your detector safely — never coil-down in your vehicle!
DON'T USE YOUR DETECTOR AS A CRUTCH TO BEND DOWN!

Final Thoughts

Fixing your Equinox coil ears is easier than you might think. With a steady hand and a little JB Weld, you’ll be back out detecting in no time.

As always — happy hunting, and may your next beep be silver.

~ The Windy Digger

Amazon.ca Buy JB Weld Plastic Bonder Here!

Robin Paul Paré

Rob is a passionate metal detecting enthusiast with a deep love for uncovering lost history. But for Rob, it’s not just about the finds — it’s about the people. He thrives on connecting with fellow detectorists, sharing knowledge, and building a strong, supportive detecting community. Whether he’s out hunting solo, organizing group events, or helping someone new get started, Rob is always ready to dig in and make a difference — one signal at a time.

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