Body Dent Repair

For deep body dents, the first task is to pull the dent out until the body returns to its original shape. Since complete restoration of the dent is unlikely, it is advisable to pull the dent to a level approximately 3 mm below the level of the undamaged part of the panel. If the dent is small, do not attempt to pull it out at all. If access to the dent from the inside is possible, carefully straighten it using a hammer with a wooden or plastic head. When straightening from the outside, place a suitable wooden block against the metal to absorb the hammer blows and prevent the metal from bulging outward.

If the dent is located in an area of the body with double-layer metal, or if access from the inside is not possible for any other reason, use a different technique. Drill several small-diameter holes in the damaged area, preferably at the deepest points. Then screw long self-tapping screws into the holes so that they grip the metal firmly. Straighten the dent by pulling the screws with pliers.

The next step in repair is to remove the paint from the damaged area and approximately 25 mm (1 in.) around it. This can be done with a wire brush fitted in a drill, or by hand with sandpaper. To complete preparation for filling, make grooves in the metal surface with a screwdriver or drill small holes in the damaged area. This ensures good adhesion of the body filler to the metal.