QA

Quick Answer: How To Use Body Filler On A Car

Can body filler be applied over paint?

Can they be applied over paint? A. Evercoat fillers are designed to work over bare, properly prepared substrates such as: steel, aluminum, galvanized metal, fiberglass, and SMC. Fillers and putties will normally work OK over properly sanded (80-180 grit) cured OEM paint.

Do 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.

Does body filler have to be applied to bare metal?

The short answer is filler companies suggest it needs to go on bare metal, and epoxy companies suggest you put filler over epoxy so they can sell more of their product.

Do you remove paint before using body filler?

Before adding any filler, you should get the metal fairly close. Also, before stripping any paint, run a metal body file or sanding board over the area to show high and low spots.

How long does it take body filler 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.

Does body filler go on bare metal or primer?

The spec sheets for epoxy primer state that body filler can be applied over the primer and it will hold. If you are not using epoxy primer, the filler should be applied to bare metal. When applying filler over epoxy primer, you must scuff the shine off the primer with a grey scuff pad or the filler will not hold.

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 you put body filler over rust?

The mere application of body filler over a substrate won’t stop rust, Miller said. Fillers might contain corrosion resistance and slow the process, “but they’re not gonna stop it,” he said. Put filler on rust, and “(the rust) may continue to grow,” he said.

Can you put body filler over bare steel?

Q. Can Evercoat fillers be applied over bare metal? Evercoat fillers are designed to work over bare, properly prepared substrates such as: steel, aluminum, galvanized metal, fiberglass, and SMC. Fillers and putties will normally work OK over properly sanded (80-180 grit) cured OEM paint.

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 spray etch primer over body filler?

Yes. You can apply self etch over fully cured filler.

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.

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.

How thick can you apply body filler?

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.

Can you put 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.

Is Bondo body filler waterproof?

Bondo Fiberglass Resins and Repair Kits are 100 percent waterproof. Because they do not shrink, they are excellent sealers. Bondo Fiberglass Resin is sandable in less than 2 hours, is compatible with all paints, and creates a strong and long-lasting bond.

What is the best surface to mix Bondo on?

Proper Mixing Techniques for Body Filler (Bondo) Mix on a Spreader Mixing Board designed for the job. Do not mix on cardboard, cardboard will absorb the important resins from the body filler and hardener. Place the proper amount of Bondo filler and hardener: 50:1. Mix with a plastic or metal Filler Spreader.

What grit sandpaper do I use for Bondo?

Make sure to sand outside of the repair area as Bondo will need to be spread and applied wider than the damaged area. (36-grit to 220-grit should do the trick for body filler application). AutoBodyNow.com sells a vast assortment of sandpapers and sanders to complete this step.