How To Patch Holes In A Car Body
Auto body repair is very intimidating to most car owners. They are understandably worried about worsening the problem. For instance, a small hole will often look worse if you patch it incorrectly. This is why you need to figure out the best technique for patching small holes. The process can be a little tricky if you don't the right materials and tools. This article explains what you will need, and how to make the patches.
What you Need
The most important thing for the job is auto body patch. Auto patch is sold in large cans with a separate tube of hardener. The hardener needs to be mixed with the putty right before you apply it to the hole. You will also need auto body sandpaper with ultra fine grit. Painter's tape is helpful, but not necessary if you are careful. Some people use a power auto buffer with a wool attachment for restoring shine to the patched area. The final product you need for the project is factory replacement paint. This is sold in simple touch-up cans. These are only suitable for small holes.
Applying the Patch
Applying the auto patch is easy, but you need to figure how fast it dries. As the putty dries it becomes harder and more difficult to work with. So, it is a good idea to practice before you apply it to the car. Use a plastic putty knife to prevent scratching the paint. The goal is to spread the putty as thinly as possible, while still getting full coverage of the hole.
Sanding the Patch
The patch will then need to be sanded down to make it perfectly flat and even. Try not to sand too much on the actual car body. The sanding should help blend the new patch with the car body.
Applying Touch Up Paint
The touch up paint is easy to apply if you buy a can with a built in applicator. This is usually in the form of a tiny paintbrush attach to the lid. Paint the patch as thinly as possible. It is best to apply multiple thin coats, instead of a thicker coat that will be lumpish when it dries.
Buffing Out the Paint
The final step is to buff out the painted area after it is completely dry. This will also help blend the paint in with the car body and make the sheen match. This is a simple project, but it is smart to do before the hole becomes a more serious problem.
To learn more, visit a website like http://www.soundsideauto.com.