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Hardening usually takes less than five minutes. Using a plastic spreader, add filler and spread it a minimum of three inches outside of the dent, while smoothing the filler out so that it is flush with the surrounding surface. Once that part of the process is taken care of, you’ll have to start sanding again.
How big of a dent can you fill with Bondo?
There is no minimum thickness for Bondo, but there is absolutely a maximum. You do not want to apply body filler to anything that is thicker than about a 1/4”. That does not mean it can’t be done, but the repair will not last as long. Eventually the filler will shrink and possibly crack, or even pop off!Feb 2, 2020.
What is the difference between body filler and putty?
Putty is essentially a thick paint with a filler material – it’s generally used for very small scratches where the metal is not exposed. Air hardening. Body filler is a polyester resin suitable for small dents. Chemical hardening, a cheap and easier (by a long way) substitute for body solder.
What kind of body filler should I use?
Standard grade is a great option for minimal hail damage and small rust spots, while premium grade should be used for actual tears or a large surface area. Standard grade body fillers are a lightweight substance or putty that spreads easily and cures in about 20-25 minutes.
Should you prime before body filler?
Do not proceed to Primer Filler stage until filled area is even. Adding body filler AFTER primer filler should be avoided to prevent possible adhesion, staining and shrinkage concerns.
What comes first primer or filler?
Years ago, the accepted method was metal-filler-primer but with new technology, new products and as we learned from past mistakes we have found that the most effective and durable way to go is metal-primer-filler.
Are body fillers strong?
We often get asked about metal body fillers or reinforced fillers and what they are. These fillers are incredibly strong but do have their place in the body shop. Not Just for Autobody Work- Metal Body Filler is a great alternative to other repairs other than auto body use.
Can you paint over body filler?
They need to be primered with a fill primer (not epoxy). If you don’t prime the filler then the filler will absorb the paint, which will end up looking like a bullseye in the paint after you’re done.
What is the easiest body filler to use?
Polyester Glaze Polyester glazes can be used to fill scratches and very small dents. They can be applied over bare metal, fiberglass, other fillers, and cured 2K Coatings. They are thin and easy to work with.
Are car body fillers flexible?
Body filler and glaze is not meant to flex the way that plastic does, therefore the material would crack. Plastic repair materials should be used when performing repairs on bumper covers. All these products are designed to move with the bumper so the material does not crack.
Should body filler go on bare metal?
The consensus on here from the research I have done is most think filler should go on good clean bare metal that is ground with 24-36 grit to create a good “tooth” for the filler to have the best opportunity for superior adhesion that will last years if not a lifetime.
Does body filler go on bare metal?
Before adding any filler, you should get the metal fairly close. For small repairs, you can bog directly over the bare metal. If the repair is larger, or you’re looking for a longer-lasting job, apply a base coat of epoxy primer before laying on the filler.
Can you leave body filler exposed?
Don’t leave the body filler exposed if you’re driving the car. As you stated, shoot on some epoxy and apply the filler. After you’ve sanded, wipe it down and shoot some epoxy atop the body filler. That will allow you to leave it as is for a long time.
Can body filler be wet sanded?
Don’t wet sand filler. Filler is too absorbant and you can have problems getting it dry plus you could cause moisture to wick through to the metal or weaken the bond between the filler and the substrate.
How long does body filler take to dry?
When used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, Bondo takes 10 to 15 minutes to dry enough to form a sandable surface. After 45 minutes it’s cured enough to be painted.
Can you apply body filler over sanded paint?
Fillers and putties will normally work OK over properly sanded (80-180 grit) cured OEM paint. However, with so many different types of aftermarket paint available (lacquer, enamel, urethane, water-based). We recommend that all paint be removed where filler is to be applied.”Nov 3, 2012.
How thick can you make body filler?
So in the spirit of political correctness and repeating the party line ” Ideally filler should never be more than 1/8″ thick “.
Why do car fillers crack?
It sounds like the panel is too flexible or the filler is applied over a crack or seam in the metal. Do you think I should spray oil inside the panel and then put plastic sheet on inside of the panel and then fill the area with spray foam before making anymore repairs.
Do you put primer over Bondo?
You should use a “direct to metal” (DTM) primer to help top coats stick to the metal but it’s not needed under body filler most of the time. Once the metal is primed then you can apply a “filler primer” (2K) to help hide scratches and minor surface irregularities.
