Friday, July 17, 2015

Body Work Techniques

Automotive body work seems compatible a Non-native words to most humanity, however it's not that packed whether you be learned a scarce basic techniques. Activity able to effect object endeavor can come in handy provided you ever demand to create some custom item profession to your motorcar or be able to repair your vehivle after a miniature accident.


Tools


The tools needed to properly engage in intent bullwork are not father in a popular mechanic's toolbox. You Testament longing habitual tools liking screwdrivers, ratchets and sockets and other basics provided you demand to remove any thing panels to receive to the damaged areas.


For metal job, a sporadic tools are needed to straighten intent panels. To remove dents, you Testament commitment a drill and a dent puller. Dent pullers are available in various different sizes. For more metal work, a dolly and body hammer are needed. They are both available in different sizes and shapes.


Other tools are needed to sand the car down after the body is straight and has been filled with filler. A dual action sander can be used to sand the car down rather than sanding by hand. Flat sanding blocks are needed in two different sizes to help smooth the car in preparation for paint. A metal file sander, sometimes called a cheese grater, is helpful when sanding Bondo or other fillers before they dry.


Metal Work


Before doing work on the metal, the entire damaged area should be cleaned of any paint and primer. Sand the area down to the bare metal with a grinder or dual action sander.


For dents, drill a hole in the center of the dent, screw the dent puller into the hole, slide the weight toward the car and then pull it back to you. Repeat this until the dent has been pulled out to the height of the surface of the car. Several holes may be needed to get the dent completely pulled out. The drill holes will be filled in later.


A dolly and hammer is used when both sides of the metal can be reached. Sometimes the plastic liner behind a body panel, such as the front fenders, can be removed to reach the back side of a damaged fender. Place the dolly in one hand and hold it against the back side of the metal. Use a flat body hammer and hit it against the damaged area, aiming for the dolly through the metal. Working the metal this way reduces the amount of body filler needed, which is better for the car's finish.


Use a plastic squeegee to mix the two together until thoroughly blended. While the Bondo is wet, apply it to the damaged area, covering it completely until the Bondo is higher than the surface of the car. Allow it to dry for about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the amount used.


Body Filler

After the metal is as smooth as possible, Bondo can be applied to the area. To mix Bondo, use a large sturdy piece of cardboard as a pallet. Pour the amount of Bondo needed onto the cardboard and add the hardener on top of it. Use a metal file to carefully grade the Bondo down to become level with the surface of the car. If the Bondo has hardened, use a dual action sander and 60-grit sandpaper to sand it flat.