The Common Tools Used In Paintless Dent RepairThe Common Tools Used In Paintless Dent Repair
Denting is definitely an annoying problem that all drivers and car owners have to deal with at some point, especially in places where hailstorms are frequent. Good thing, the process of paintless dent removal was invented to fix these kinds of issues without having to go through the rigorous process of re-painting the entire body of the car.
And like any other method of automotive repair, PDR also requires various kinds of tools that are created with certain dents and dings scenarios in mind. Having these specially designed tools for PDR is what technicians need to make the work quicker. These tools are also essential to achieve the desired results.
So take time to read today’s entry are we’ll tackle some of the common tools in paintless dent repair.
The Various PDR Tools That Technicians Often Use
The best technicians in PDR are very skillful in fixing or removing dents using different tools and techniques they’ve gathered over time. And if you’re going to ask these professionals how often they are using these PDR tools, you’ll find out they’ve been using these same tools since day 1.
Always keep in mind that their experience allows them to be effective in working with the car’s bodywork. And through the years, they’ve been dealing with different dent issues, they have also acquired some unconventional tricks to restore the car’s body effectively. And one that makes them experts in this trade is their reliance on these PDR tools.
Below you’ll find the list of some of the common PDR tools that professional auto technicians should have to be able to perform the PDR method of repair with desirable results:
1. LED Inspection Light
Technicians make use of an LED inspection light to be able to check on areas needed to be fixed during the autobody work or detailing process. And this tool is very handy since it allows them to have a closer look at the dented area an identify the nature of the issue and perform the most appropriate method of PDR repair. Aside from that, it enables them to look at the poorly-lit areas from both the external and internal sides of the body and see any dents or scratches that are not that noticeable at first glance.
According to most PDR auto technicians, the mini PDR lights are the most versatile kind of PDR tools they can use since it allows them to perform the PDR process with both hands because the inspection light can be placed through a window or panel through its suction cup.
Although, some technicians still use an LED light pen when inspecting different panels because they find it more convenient.
In addition, some technicians also use a stationary LED lamp stand though it’s quite inconvenient since the lamp has to be plugged and placed at the nearest electrical source.
2. Ultra-Light Slide Hammer
This tool is a T-shaped device that generates power from the physical force of the user to pull the crease back to its original shape. And it comes with different tabs of various sizes and shapes so they’ll be able to pull out any kind of dents on the car’s frame along with a set of scrapers and a sprayer.
3. Glue Gun
This tool is also essential for technicians who are removing dents without ruining the paint job. It comes in battery-powered, gas-powered, and corded units. The technician also uses a PDR glue along with this tool to pull the dent out similar to how the ultra-light slide hammer is being used.
4. Bar w/Screw Tips
PDR technicians also need a bar to repair dented areas of the vehicle. This tool is basically a standard bar that has a 90-degree angled tip. And it is used for getting into areas like front wing fenders, bonnet panels, and other dented areas where dents cannot be easily accessed.
5. PDR Whale Tails
This type of tool has already been used since the invention of paintless dent removal. Although, it is only recommended to be used by expert technicians since PDR whale tails are not easy to master due to the twisting movement pattern required while fixing dents.
And while dealing with creases using a PDR whale tail, the technician should target the dented area right at the middle to prevent the indentation from getting worse.
6. Tap Down Kit
The main purpose of this PDR is to knock the high spots that you may have made while in the process of pushing and pulling the dented area. A conventional panel beater may only use a hammer to fix the frame, but an expert PDR technician will always use this kit to fix the indentation.
Tap down kits are usually made with a nylon or plastic tip so they won’t cause damage to the paint surface during tapping. And while the technician will try to stop the metal of the frame from overstretching, high spots are unavoidable. Also, dents react differently depending on the situation. So the PDR technician will always need a PDR tap down kit to repair high spots.
7. Window Guard & Wedge
The side panel is the most common area that is affected by dents and dings. And if you are going to insert PDR tools in-between the window pane and panel, chances are the window will get damaged. So to prevent this from happening, the technician will place a window guard & wedge before performing the PDR process.
To insert this tool, the technician will slide the wedge down and push the glass back to create enough space for inserting the other PDR tools needed for the repair.
8. Heat Gun
Lastly, this tool is used in fixing dents because:
- During cold conditions, the dented area needs to be heated up so the metal will respond better to the repair methods being done by the technician.
- Heat guns are used to heat up plastic bumpers so the technician will be able to mold them easily and put the dented area back to its original shape.
Overall, these are some of the basic tools commonly used when fixing dents on the car’s body. If you need professional help in removing your car’s dents, visit Hail Free Solutions in Denver today.