To restore your automobile’s body to a new condition requires the best products and craftsmanship. In truth, it’s a multi-step process that should only be done by a professional. If you think you can do your own auto body refinishing then read this first.
The first step to auto body refinishing is to locate the area that needs the work. Unless you are refinishing your entire automobile, you should remove any decals or other emblems for the area that you will be working on. Next, you need to clean the area thoroughly with soap and water.
You need to apply masking tape or some other material over adjacent areas of your vehicle’s body so that the work you do on the area needing attention doesn’t spill over.
Remove any rusted metal from the area. Yes, cut it. It needs to come off so that it doesn’t spread. Next, sandblast the area to ensure all the rust is gone.
After you have removed rusted metal you’ll need to patch the area. Use 22-18 guage metal and weld or torch it into place. Be careful that you don’t set the car on fire. If you’ve never used a torch or welder before then you might ought to leave this to the professionals.
If the body is damaged then you should probably replace that part of the body rather than repair it. Apply putty or fiberglass where necessary to repair any body damage then sand it smooth. After you sanded the area smooth, apply your primer.
Block the primer and smooth it out. Use 400 or 500 grit sandpaper and sand until the gloss is out.
Next, wash the area to remove sanding dust and other contaminants. Then blow it dry and wipe the area clean. Be sure to mask the adjacent areas of your vehicle and spray on your topcoat of paint.
Auto body refinishing is very detailed work. If you do it improperly or leave a step out you could end up with a very ugly car. Imperfections will be noticeable.
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