A few simple dent repair tips can go a long way when repairing a ding on your car. Using car soap rather than car wax can help to prevent further damage. Using a plunger or hammer to remove the dent is an excellent option if you have a dolly. It can also make the process go faster if you take your time. However, there are some things you should be aware of when using any of these tools.
Car soap is better for dent repair
After a car accident, it is essential to thoroughly wash the outside of your car before beginning the dent repair process. It is a good idea to use a block of dishwashing soap, as it will not leave any silicone or wax residues, making the process of dent removal more difficult. The final step is to strip the wax and silicone of the dented surface. A typical car soap will not do the job.
Using a plunger
Using a plunger for dent repairs is easy to straighten minor dents in your car’s body. A cup or flat plunger is needed to do this method. Typically, you’d use a plunger to unclog a sink, but you can also use it for dent repair on your car. To begin, measure the dented area and lubricate the edges of the cup or plunger with petroleum jelly. Plungers with round edges may not work well on curved surfaces.
If the ding is only a quarter-size, you can use a toilet plunger to repair it. However, use care when using a plunger because a dent more significant than a quarter is not likely to be fixed with a toilet plunger. The plunger is also better suited to flatter body panels. Always use a clean plunger to prevent debris from ruining the paint.
Using a hammer
There are several different methods for using a hammer for dent repair. The first method uses a dolly to support the metal behind the hammer. A doll can help you shrink or smooth metal. Many dolly types are available, including heel, toe, and utility. Each tool has a different shape, weight, and length, and you must match the one you’re using to the form of the dent.
Other methods involve using a slide hammer. A slide hammer, also called a dent puller, can be used to remove any dent. Every body shop uses this tool to remove marks, so you can use one yourself to repair dents. A good dent puller kit should contain a body filler or primer. One tip: Consider a chisel hammer if you don’t have a slide hammer. This tool has a flat head that’s great for removing more minor dents and knocking down high spots.
Using a dolly
A dolly is a convenient tool that allows you to remove minor dents in your vehicle. You can use it to level minor imperfections in your dented car and stretch and shrink the metal. The same strategy applies when using a dolly: first in, last out. Using a doll can make the process easier and more efficient, but there are specific guidelines that you should follow.
The first step is to ensure that the dolly is parallel to the metal panel. Use a contour gauge to ensure the dolly is similar to the metal panel. If the panel is too flat, you can use a body hammer to tap it lightly. If you use a dolly that spans the entire dent, you won’t have to worry about using a body hammer.
Using a stud welder gun
If you’ve been looking for an affordable, effective way to fix dents in your car, you should consider using a stud welder gun. These tools can save you as much as 10-20 hours of manual work and reduce the chance of warping your metal. In addition, using a stud welder gun is a great way to make quick repairs and do-it-yourself projects.
The best thing about this type of dent repair kit is that it has a complete set of accessories, including the studs themselves and a stud welding tip. In addition, the kits are small enough to be used in any position and come with a carrying case. It is also highly portable, making them ideal for those who travel a lot. This tool is an excellent option for DIY dent repair and is a great investment for any vehicle owner.