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Auto body repair & detailing/Galvanized Underbody repair

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Expert: Kim Smith - 3/20/2009


Question

Underbody Holes
I took my Saturn SL2 (1998) in to have a muffler clamp changed (Broken). The technician used an Oxyacetylene torch to the under body directly above the muffler and burned several holes through to the trunk (and burned the carpeting). They have apologized and volunteered to repair. What technically needs to be done to repair this special type of under body (Galvanized), internal corrosion repair, and internal body repair trunk...I am afraid they are just going to do a quick patch up job. Please help !

Answer
Hi Ken, I would personally take the car to a reputable Autobody shop and have them give you a estimate to have the repair work done properly. The shop you take it to will walk you through the repair procedures and also give you the costs of repairing. Ask questions about there rustproofing the repair......
I would personally cut out the burned metal and patch in the area with new metal . Welding with a Mig welder.Also the use of weld through primer. After the repair work is welded into place a Zink or galvalume primer should be applied,followed with a rust paint.These areas were never painted by the manufacturers but had a zink cromate epoxy primer applied to the underside of the vehicles.
Ask the shop that damaged the car if they are willing to cover the costs of having it repaired----------Perhaps they have someone who is qualified with a journeymans certificate to do the repair...
Keep in mind that a Mechanics certificate and a Autobody repairmans certificate are two separate fields. Repair should be done by a qualified Autobody mechanic.....
Hope this helps and that you are able to have the repair done to your satisfaction.......  Kim
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentWow, thank you for taking the time to explain in detail your recommended corrective actions. I have, as you recommended, contacted an alternate dealer with Autobody specialization to get a second opinion.I have also asked the original company to provide me with a detailed summary of the activities they expect to perform. Depending on the responses I have already informed the original company I may ask for it to be repaired by another company I am dis satisfied with their feedback.


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Kim Smith

Expertise

Any questions related to autobody and refinishing. I do not proclaim to know it all but have alot of professional experience in my trade.

Experience

30 years.

Organizations
Own business

Publications
None as of yet.

Education/Credentials
Journeyman certificates in Alberta and BC, also I have my Interprovincial Red Seal standards of Canada.

Awards and Honors
World of wheels - Peoples choice award on a 1930 model A coupe customized into a Roadster

Past/Present Clients
Long line up of clients

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