opinions/advise please

[jamesmx3]

so i've been doing a bit of reading, as i have a small dent in my hood. I am going to repair it, but need some advice on body filler/bondo. I have rear 2 different ways of doing it

1. put the bondo straight onto bare metal, so it adheres properly.

2. use etch primer on to the bare metal before bondo so the bondo adheres properly, as it will 'slip off bare metal'.

when i've done it in the past I've just sanded and put it onto paint of bare metal, where ever it was needed. I want to do this properly though as I want the car to look good.

thanks
James

[94drumx3]

I've used bondo on bare metal and it has never slipped off yet. i've never tried it on primer tho so i wouldn't know for sure.
I dont suppose the dent is small enough to use dry ice on? i guess you'd need to be able to find some tho.

[jamesmx3]

Not sure on the dry ice, but I don't know where I'd get it from.

I have some other little dings on the doors too, which I was going to fill, and some rust repairs to do too, so still need the bondo advice!

I have used it both ways (on bare and painted surfaces) in the past, but not too sure on the 'correct' method of aplication.

[94drumx3]

http://www.chevytalk.org/fusionbb/print ... id/186221/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

apparently this is something everyone has their own opinion on. both ways make sense.

[jamesmx3]

thanks, just read through that tread, they both make sense, should i try both ways?? or stick to one, im thinking the etch primer route might be better to 'seal' the metal?? although from what I've heard primer is not waterproof.

What have I started!!!

[94drumx3]

yeah i'd prolly go with primer first....i think thats what i'll do the next time. it'll be a first for me tho. i dont think you'd have a problem sticking to one, or doing both.
any ideas anyone else?

[Nd4SpdSe]

Hmm, isn't the point of bondo to be a metal filler?

Bondo was developed as a replacement for body solder, or molten lead, that was formerly used for the same task. Body solder is much more durable, but may require more effort to apply. Lead-based solder poses toxic hazards for people and the environment due to the heavy metal components. Despite the fact that Bondo is far safer to work with than its lead-based counterparts, it still poses significant health risks. The fumes are quite toxic, and the hardeners can create burns in cases of prolonged skin contact. The use of gloves, a mask, and proper ventilation are all recommended when mixing and applying the filler.

[...]

Bondo has widespread usage in Computer Case Modding, as when properly used, can be sanded smooth and painted, and it will attach and hold, without damage, to metal, plastic, acrylic and perspex surface.

Apply bondo to clean, rough metal only.

Bondo body filler was made to work on metal. It fills in the imperfections on the body.