Expert: Dave Norgardt - 8/21/2011

Question
Hi,  I have 3 small dents in the hood of my Nissan Frontier from falling fruits from a tree near my house.  The dents seem to be golf ball-sized.  Do you think dents of this size can be pulled out, or would I need body work/replace my hood?  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Brady!  Yes, dents of this size can be pulled out and repaired..( You will still have to do some bodywork as well though ) Diameter of the dent, is not as critical as the depth.....Every dent has a high and a low spot.....The low spot ( center ), obviously needs to be pulled up, and the circumference, ( high area ), needs to be tapped down...This can be achieved by using a unispotter from the top side. If the dent is relatively deep, the metal has stretched, and will most likely need a " Shrink "...This can also be achieved by using the unispotter, as they usually have a shrinking tip included in the kit....This method will work on a metal hood, but not an aluminum one....If you are not sure which type you have, take a magnet, and see if it will stick...A magnet will not stick to aluminum......Another option, is to see if you have access to the underside of the dents....If you do, you can " pick " the dent up to repair it..Hope this helps.....Any further questions regarding shrinking, doing bodywork, etc,...Please do not hesitate to wite back.....Thanks..........Dave