| Auto-Body Repair |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-701 |
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Trisha Hessinger answers some frequently asked questions about fixing minor scratches and dents on your car exterior. Q: How do I find the right paint color to match my car? A: Most modern vehicles have the paint-color code listed on the edge of the door or door jamb (figure A). If you can't find it there, check the glove compartment.
- Important: Don't rely on guesswork for paint-matching. If you can't find your paint code, contact a dealership for your make of car, or an auto parts store. Have the year, make and model of your vehicle available, and let them help you find an exact match.
Q: What prep work do I need to do before painting a scratch? A: For a minor surface-scratch (figure B), the prep is fairly easy and straightforward. Simply clean the area using a solution of soap and warm water. Use a soft towel to clean the area thoroughly, taking care to remove any grit or residue that may down in the scratch. After cleaning, wipe the surface dry and then allow it to sit and dry thoroughly before you begin touch-up painting.
Q: How do I remove rust from my car? A: Most modern cars are fairly protected against rust. Where rust appears because the paint has been damaged or scratched, you can use fine steel wool to gently remove the rust. An alternative method is to use a chemical rust-converter. Follow the instructions that come with the chemical rust treatment for application and follow-up.
- Once you've removed the rust, and properly matched your paint, you're ready to apply some touch-up paint (figure C) to the scratch.
- For very small or fine scratches, avoid using the brush applicator that comes with the touch-up paint. It's better to use a toothpick or a specially made fine-applicator (figure D) to apply a small amount of touch-up paint to the crack, without adding any excess. Apply a very thin coat with the applicator, avoiding buildup.
- Apply the paint in one direction rather than in a back-and-forth motion.
- Once you've applied the touch-up paint, allow it to dry thoroughly, following the manufacturer's directions. Once it's completely dry, you can come back and apply a clear-coat (figure E), if your car has a clear-coat finish. Most new vehicles do have clear-coat.
Q: How do I fill a large scratch on my car? A: Repairing a large scratch -- where the surface has been made uneven because of the scratch or damage -- can be tedious and time-consuming, but it can be done. Begin by using heavy-grit sandpaper to remove all of the paint from the area of the scratch, and immediately around it (figure F).
- Follow the same procedure with a finer-grit sandpaper to clean up the surface and "feather" the edges of the area into the painted surface surrounding the effected area. Clean away sanding residue with a clean rag.
- Next, prepare the body filler according to the manufacturer's instructions (figure G). Body filler is available at auto centers and auto-parts stores.
- Apply the filler using a thin paddle designed specifically for this purpose. The key to success in applying body filler is to apply it in several very thin layers (figure H). Apply one thin coat, let it dry, then come back and apply another thin coat. Repeat this several times until the filled area is even with the surface around it.
- Once the filler has been applied so that it is level with the surrounding surface (figure I), use the heavy sandpaper, followed by finer-grit sandpaper, to even out and smooth the surface.
- Once the filler phase is complete, a primer can be applied to ready the area for painting. Mask the area surrounding the repair with newspaper (figure J) to prevent over-spray of the spray-on primer.
- Tip: To further protect against over-spray with the aerosol paint, consider using a piece of cardboard with a cut-out that's the same size and shape as the effected area (figure K).
Bonus Automotive Quick-Tip: To reduce gasoline consumption in your vehicle: - Check tire pressure frequently.
- Replace dirty air filters.
- Get regular tune-ups.
- Avoid running your air-conditioner when it's not necessary
RESOURCES :
Ultimate Auto Detailing
Model: 0879389419
Author: David H. Jacobs
(1995)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
Motorbooks International
Auto Repair for Dummies
Author: Deanna Sclar
ISBN: 0764550896
Auto Detailing: Step-By-Step Procedures for Complete Automobile Detailing
Model: 0801983940
Author: James Joseph
(1998)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
Chilton Book Company
Westchester, PA 19380
Phone: 610-738-9280
Fax: 610-738-9354
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