How to Put Body Filler on a Car
Body filler is a type of automotive repair material used to fill in dents, dings, and other imperfections in a car’s body. It is a two-part epoxy that is applied to the damaged area and then hardens to create a smooth, finished surface.
Body filler can be used on both metal and fiberglass surfaces. However, it is important to note that it is not a structural repair material and should not be used to repair any damage that affects the integrity of the car’s frame or body.
Steps for Applying Body Filler
Materials Needed:
- Body filler
- Mixing cup and stir stick
- Spreader and putty knife
- Sandpaper
- Primer
- Paint
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Before you can apply body filler, you need to prepare the damaged area by cleaning it thoroughly with a degreaser and then sanding it to create a smooth, even surface.
Step 2: Mix the Body Filler
Body filler comes in two parts: a resin and a hardener. To mix the body filler, you will need to combine the two parts in a mixing cup and stir them thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 3: Apply the Body Filler
Once the body filler is mixed, you can begin applying it to the damaged area. Use a spreader to apply a thin layer of body filler to the area, working from the center of the damage outward.
Step 4: Smooth the Body Filler
Once the body filler has been applied, you need to smooth it out using a putty knife. To do this, hold the putty knife at a slight angle and use smooth, even strokes to spread the body filler over the damaged area.
Step 5: Sand the Body Filler
Once the body filler has dried, you need to sand it to smooth it and create a level surface. Start by using coarse sandpaper to remove any large bumps or imperfections. Then, switch to finer sandpaper to smooth out the surface.
Step 6: Prime and Paint the Body Filler
Once the body filler has been sanded, you need to prime it to create a barrier between the body filler and the paint. Once the primer has dried, you can paint the body filler to match the rest of the car.
Tips for Applying Body Filler
* Use a clean mixing cup and stir stick to avoid contaminating the body filler.
* Mix the body filler thoroughly until it is smooth and free of lumps.
* Apply the body filler in thin layers, working from the center of the damage outward.
* Smooth the body filler evenly using a putty knife.
* Sand the body filler thoroughly to create a smooth, level surface.
* Prime and paint the body filler to match the rest of the car.
