Ford Workshop Service and Repair Manuals

If strong and direct force during the damage process causes the material to stretch in the middle of a dent, then the result is a small and sharp edged dent. Such damage cannot be rectified without visible deformation.

Dent with material stretching

Preconditions for a successful repair are a definite diagnosis and the correct allocation of repair method.

Furthermore, sufficient experience in the use of special tools and knowledge of materials are also requirements for a successful repair.

• Application is restricted to body surfaces which are accessible from both sides. This repair technique is seldom feasible on double-skinned body components or closed body profiles.
• The same applies to edge areas, swage lines and seams on body components, which are very dimensionally stable.
• Satisfactory repair results are only possible on mild dents with little depth and small deformation radii. Therefore this repair method is particularly suitable for hail, parking and transportation damage.

The following characteristics must be present for a dent to be satisfactorily removed:

• The diameter must be no more than 50 mm.
• No material stretching in the centre of the dent.
• Repair area must be accessible

The economic viability of undamaged paint dent removal must be considered in addition to whether it is possible practically. This depends on:

• Surface dimensions and depth of the dent.
• Inherent stability of the repair area.
• Material condition.
• Number of dents, in relation to a particular body surface.
• If applicable, any paint damage already present.

While carrying out the repair, the following itemized repair route and process flow must be complied with:

In order to ensure corrosion protection, all inner areas of the repair must be treated afterwards. Where it is possible, the paint is repaired. In every case the inner area of the repair must be treated with cavity wax.