I need some step by step instructions on how to use bondo. I have small rust holes in the door, and the hood right above the grille is rusted completely through. I would post pics, but I have no camera as of the moment. Help is appreciated. I know I am a newbie, but I'm learning so much.
While I'm sure plenty of great people on this forum are willing to help, it might be easier, and quicker, to research it a little first. There are plenty of videos on YouTube. Pictures are worth a thousand words. Motion pictures are even better. I would recommend searching for subjects like "repairing rust spots", "how to use bondo", "making patch panels", etc. We were all new once, stick with it and you will pick it up in no time.
with the above ................ Bondo is best used to skim coat a panel to fill in minor imperfections. Rust holes are best cured by patching in new metal. One thing you will find is if you see a rust hole the size of a dime - once you hit that spot with a coarse paper or wire wheel, it will be big enough to stick your hand into. About 80% of the real rust on a car is hidden - what you can see is only the tip of the iceberg. I think you will learn a lot watching some of the YOU TUBE videos.
your honestly better off finding someone to teach and or show you if you dont have anyone than grab a piece of card board throw some bondo on it and hardener mix it and smear it on worst thing if it comes out like crap you can sand it off. body work takes years of experience and if you truly want a super straight panel i would find somebody.
One other thing to consider is that bondo, when used strictly to fill a rust hole, can last anywhere from 3 weeks to maybe a year or two at most. It is not a permanent solution. Where are you located?
You must remove the rusty metal and replace that metal first or you will only have a temporary repair. If you dont stop the rust...It will return. Use a good filler too, not the cheap stuff...Spend the money and buy a gallon or "Rage Gold" or "Rage Extreme" It will lay down smoothly with no pinholing and will not shrink over time. It sands incredibly easily too. You do nedd to research how its done "properly" or you will not be satisfied with the results...Good luck!!!
I want to restore it over time. I don't know where to exactly find doors. They're rear doors. I know it'd be cheaper if I just do that than going to a body shop, but I'm not made of money.
You should post a location. Someone near you might have doors or be willing to help you with your problems.
