Auto body repair & detailing: FENDER DENT REPAIR

Question
Hello,

I have a 2004 buick Regal with a fender dent about the size of a grapefruit.Can you explain a procedure that I can preform to fix this?

I assume that I will have to remove the fender; If I do have to remove it can you explain how to remove it.

And would you please explain what flex additive is?

I don't need any painting instructions.

Thanks,JIM

Answer
Hi Jim.

In your particular situation, I would recommend leaving the fender on the vehicle. You will be able to gain access to the back side of the fender by removing the fender/wheelhouse plastic splash shield. Removing the tire /wheel assembly will also give you more room to gain access.


Any dent, is actually comprised of two repair areas. The center of the dent is obviously the low area, but the surrounding circumference is higher than the original non damaged sheet metal. To repair this, you will need to first bump the low spot back out as close to original as possible. Using a wide faced bumping hammer will give you a desired result. Once this has been done, you will now need to put outward pressure on the back side of the low spot using a body dolly, while at the same time, tapping down the circumference (high area), using a flat faced body hammer. Leaving the paint on the panel throughout this repair process, will give you the ability to see the progress of your repair. Any low spots deeper than 1/8th inch, can be brought up using a pick hammer. Finally, hammer and dolly the surface as flat as possible. Next, grind the repaired area SLOWLY down to bare metal, using 50-80 grit sandpaper or discs. The faster the speed when grinding, the higher chance of introducing heat and distortion to the panel. Proceed to backsand down to bare metal with 100-120 grit several inches past the repair area. Apply a good quality body filler to the repair, and slightly past it. Block sand the filler, starting with 80 grit, then 120, 180, and lastly 220. Lastly, sand the overall circumference with 180 then 220. Mask and prime as required.

In regards to your question about flex additives....A flex additive is a chemical added to the clear coat of a 2 or 3 stage paint system. It is generally only added when a bumper cover, or any other flexible body panel is to be refinished. Hence the term "Flex" additive.


Hope I have answered all of your questions Jim. Please feel free to drop me another line if there is anything else I can try and help you out with....Have a Happy New Year....Dave.