Automotive Bodywork & Rust Repair

I imagine this text becoming a classic on the subject. The author wrote plainly. He introduced bumping, filing, filling, grinding, patching, sanding, sectioning, welding, and more. Newer and older repair approaches are mentioned, if only in passing. The author also discussed advantages and drawbacks of an impressive variety of tools normally used in bodywork. After reading this book, I feel confident enough to tackle rust remediation on my aging Chevy truck. I think this book communicated the principles well enough that I'll be able to get out of any trouble I might stumble into. And I'll surely avoid a lot of trouble altogether. Without this book, I shudder to think of the damage I would have caused had I gone straight to an auto parts store and tried to git-r-done. The author seems to possess a patience and reverence for the work, and what it takes to do bodywork competently. This is not a 12-step plan for slathering filler and spray paint on your ride. With regard to criticism, I can think of three things that prospective readers might care to know. First, this book does not specifically discuss the latest generation of fancy electric sanders that are now probably finding their way into automotive use. For example, I happen to own a Festool RO 150 FEQ Rotex sander, which I reckon to be suitable for some automotive applications, but this book only addresses pure-rotary sanders of a traditional design. Second, this book does not discuss the application of paints and finishes much, if at all. Presumably, painting is beyond the scope of this book, and deserves treatment all its own. Thirdly, despite talking about welding as it applies to auto bodywork, persons who have never used a welder will need separate instruction. Incidentally, bumping means using a hammer or similar tool to gently change the shape of sheet metal. I recall being confused about what bumping meant as I read the first pages of the book.

I have a 65 dodge 2 door that has some rust. I found another 65 Dodge body just like it from western state, no rust but some collision damage. I was planning to use the wetern car as a donor and cut patch panels from it. But I'm considering wether or not to build the donor car instead being less rust. use the michigan car as a donor for the collision damage... also trying to do the work myself and this book gives me more information to be able to make a decision which car to build and what I'm possibly getting myself into. Someone said collision damage is easier to fix than rust but my experiencee is patching rust. Theres info on bumping dents, work hardening vs annealing, etc. some may say old school but thhats what I was looking for.

Although I haven't put any of the information to practical use yet, the book is suited for beginners and at least gives you some good information to go on. I've never done body work but I am at least less afraid to start now. I would suggest reading as many books and look on the internet to educate yourself before you start actually working on your auto.

I have a little experience tinkering around with automotive body work and this book definitely has a lot of answers to my many questions that pop up that I need a quick answer to. I know I will learn quite a bit more to add to my novice-intermediate skills and get more accomplished on my Cougar!

Clear and full of detail. Worth the money.

Good information

I'm not experienced but have done some rust repair and bodywork, especially with my 55 F350. The book has some good pointers and some information I'm sure I'll have to refresh my memory on later, but I'm pretty much past this information. Definitely, a great addition to my automotive library!

Good book, covers the details concerning rust removal and repair with good references to tools and chemistry. Section on sand blasting very good as it explained the different medias which are available and what should be used for each type of paint removal. I was headed towards using the wrong media for paint stripping of my 63 Nova. Cost of the book was justified right there. Does cover other body repair topics but that is not its primary focus. Confirms that rust repair requires a lot of chemistry, tools, and time for the DIY person. But it can be done at home if you are prepared to put in the effort. If rust repair is your focus, this is an excellent reference book.