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Auto body repair & detailing/2003 Freightliner Aluminum Body Panel

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Expert: William Forster - 4/5/2007


Question
I have a slash in the body panel very low on the bunk. It is about 6 inches long. I used a puller to pull both edges back together. Can this be welded or do you suggest some type of filler like bondo (fiberglass or ?) Thanks for the insight! Dave

Answer
Hello David. If it's torn or crushed, it needs replaced. It's intensely difficult to weld aluminum, and if you TIG weld it, the part must be removed from the vehicle. It will fry every onboard computer if not completely isolated from the vehicle. No filler in the world will stop the crack from coming back through in a couple months, especially on an over the road vehicle like a truck. All that rocking and vibration requires the very best body work possible to last, and what you describe is anything but. Bill  

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William Forster

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22 year veteran, 2 years of vocational training. A.S.E. certified Master collision repair/refinish technician. I-CAR certified. 17 yrs. GM experience. I can answer most questions related to automotive body repairs, ranging from small scratch repairs all the way up to the most extensive collision repairs. I can expertly advise people on what to expect from their body shop experience, right down to what self repairs should, and should not, be done. Lastly, I can advise tricks and tips for classic car restoration, such as lead repairs. SORRY, I DO NOT DO ONLINE ESTIMATES OR GIVE PARTS PRICES!! BE PREPARED FOR THE CORRECT ANSWER- NOT THE ONE YOU WANT TO HEAR. I won't B.S. you, or sugar coat answers. Just plain, hard facts.

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