Expert: Michael Kakuk - 7/6/2010

Question
Hello, I grew up in body shop and know quite a bit about repairs.  I mainly deal with insurance companies, write estimates, etc...  I see that you worked for State Farm.  That's awesome because that is one of the best companies we deal with.  On with my problem, I know, my bodymen know, as you probably know that you cannot cut off a used bed side panel, or quarter panel, that has been glued on.  Even some where they haven't been glued on, it's almost impossible to cut off and reinstall on something (and it be a good job). I know this may come as a shock to you but there are some adjusters out there that think you can do this.  I spend a lot of time arguing that it cannot be done (probably because I'm female..lol)  What terminology/proof in writing can I send with my supplements to prove that you cannot do it?  I really think it should be a prerequisite to have been a body man for at least 5 years before becoming an adjustor.  Just sayin... I hope all that made sense.  Thanks for your time.

Answer
KELLY...... I FIGHT THE SAME PROBLEM EVEN NOW.....IT'S NOT BECAUSE YOUR A GIRL IT'S BECAUSE
THE INSURANCE COMPANY CAN SEE THE COST SAVINGS INVOLVED WITH SUCH A REPAIR.

HOWEVER YOU HAVE TO WARRANTY THE JOB AND MAKE IT LOOK PERFECT....I HAVE YET TO SEE THAT HAPPEN.
WE REPLACE LKQ BEDSIDES ONLY WHEN THE WE HAVE TO.

WITH THE GLUED ON BEDSIDES THE BEST JOB IS TO PUT THE ENTIRE SECTION IN INCLUDING THE INNER STRUCTURE AND CHARGE ACCORDINGLY.

I WOULD TAKE THE NEXT PANEL THAT YOU ARE ASKED TO PUT ON AND DOCUMENT THE CONDITION OF THE PANEL WHEN YOU RECEIVED IT IN.

IF THE EDGES ARE GOUGED AND NEED REPAIR TIME EITHER ASK FOR THE REPAIR TIME FROM THE YARD
OR INSURANCE COMPANY. I DO NOT KNOW OF ANYTHING IN WRITING THAT STATES THAT THE REPLACEMENT
IS A NO-NO.

THE ADJUSTERS NEED TO BE MORE FLEXIBLE AND THAT ONLY COMES WITH EXPERIENCE.


HOPE THIS HELPS

MIKE