Everyone has been kind of freaked out about aluminum repair. New repair methods, clean rooms, etc. But see what you think after watching this video.
From the repair shop perspective, this may not be a bad thing. Double repair time and double labor rate….there may be good money in aluminum repair. Perhaps the hassle of new repair methods and clean rooms is worth the investment. From the customer’s perspective this may drive the cost up on vehicles and insurance premiums to cover the higher cost of repairs. Do you think the fuel saved from the weight reduction will be enough to offset these costs?
Matt Matula
So what would be the cost to replace the whole panel vice repair of the damaged one?
Mike Bohannan
Donnie,
How does Ford recommend repairing Aluminum panels? Any other entities like ICAR or ASE have recommended methods? Many moons ago, I learned the trade in a Kenworth Truck dealership body shop. Back then, they were just about all Aluminum & fiberglass, although I dont think the panels were anywhere near as tough of an alloy as what Ford is using.
We used old school techniques for dent repair, namely slide hammers with screw ends to pull out the panels, or hammers & dollies when accessable. Stretching was the biggest issue back then and we replaced a lot pf panels that could have been repaired had they been steel. Obviously, the dent was repaired in the video and wasnt a panel replacement. Any new, more modern techniques available for aluminum repair? I now work in a fleet shop and may well be seeing some new F150’s soon.
TIA
Mike