Expert: Mark Haben - 1/3/2009

Question
I accidently bumped into someone-my hood and hood cable need replacing.  I purchased a hood from the salvage yard and need to sand and prime- what grit paper is the best? seeking info on the best proceedure to prime hood and how to install cable?  Also, my passenger door will not open, so I thought i'd buy a used door and replace and prime like the hood.  What do you think?

Answer
Suzanne-

None of this is rocket science- but...

You will need proper tools, access to an air supply for any refinishing, paint booth, and a willingness to "bust your knuckles".

I usually don't make recommendations on fix it yourself repairs, it's too hard to educate someone via e-mail about the many ins and outs of different repairs, different vehicles, and replace vs. repair of panels etc.

My best advice to you is to let a professional shop near you have a look at the car and give you some sort of advice or guidance how to proceed with an at home repair. Any body shop should be willing to look it over briefly and give you a good starting point.

One hint- If buying salvage parts try your hardest to locate parts that are the same color- you will save much $$$ and grief over refinishing, just don't expect a perfect color match.

Good Luck, Mark