Auto body repair & detailing/Filling holes

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Expert: William Forster - 11/6/2006


Question
Sir,

My son just purchased a 1997 Acura Intergra.  The previous owner had a wing mounted to the trunk that required 4 holes for the bolts.  My son removed the wing and wants to fill the holes.  The pressure of the wing bolts pull the metal up around the holes.  I would like to help him fix this area before he get the car repainted.  What is the best way to get the metal even around the holes as well as fill them?
Thanks

Answer
You need some sort of dolly block to back up the holes, and then gently hammer them flush. They MUST be welded shut. Simply filling them with putty will work short term, but within 6 months, you will see a ring where the holes were. Perhaps a visit to a local junk yard will turn up a clean trunk lid, maybe even the same color as the car. It's worth a shot. 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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