9. Spreaders
These handleless spatulas come in different sizes and materials; we recommend using the metal type because it's easy to clean and produces a smooth finish. When possible, use a spreader that is at least twice the size of the dent you are trying to fix. if you are on a tight budget just pick up the plastic type, but the metal ones will, for the most part, produce better results.
TP Tools & Equipment
www.tptools.com
10. Rigid Blocks
These can be your best friend and your worst enemy. if properly used, your truck will be nice and straight, but your arms are going to suffer in the process. There are two types of rigid blocks you'll need to worry about: pneumatic and manual. They'll do the same job, but the pneumatic will do more work for you. even if you have an air compressor, we recommend the manual version at first because you're less likely to mess up.
Hutchins Mfg. Co.
(626 )792-8211
www.hutchinsmfg.com
11. Primers
When it comes to primers, there are a few types to use depending on what you're trying to cover. in simple terms, a metal-etching primer is used to cover areas that are bare metal only, and the rest of the bodywork should be done over that. A high-fill poly primer is used to cover bodywork and old paint; this is the primer you will use to do the final block-sanding. A primer sealer is used to seal up all the primers and bodywork underneath and create a barrier so no moisture soaks into the absorbent poly primer or plastic body filler. if you plan to leave your ride in primer for a while, you definitely want to use a sealer as your last coat.
PCl
(800)752-1566
www.pclautomotive.com
12. Sandpaper
The unsung hero for all bodywork has to be sandpaper. Without this stuff, who knows how we would get things straight again or smooth out orange peel? it comes in many grits and shapes. if you're doing a complete body job, you'll want to pick up some 80-, 120-, 220-grit in the dry version and some 400-, 600-, and 800-grit in the wet version. Dry paper is mainly used to sand metal, primers, and filler, while the wet is used to sand paint to be polished.
3M
www.3m.com
13. Specialty Blocks
Not every surface of a truck is completely flat, and thanks to companies like Hutchins there are special-purpose blocks that fit in the contours for great results. Hutchins even makes a block specifically designed for the bed area so you can smooth out along the ribs.
Hutchins Mfg. Co.
(626)792-8211
www.hutchinsmfg.com