A Total Body Panel Makeover – From Hood to Floor Panels
There are lots of ways that owners can make their vehicles over. For some, it comes down to a matter of necessity while others simply enjoy the customization process. One of the big makeover arguments among classic car buffs is whether to replace the carburetor or install a fuel injection system. Drivers or Jeeps and light and mid-sized trucks are often beefing up their rides for off-road excursions. Still, other drivers go for a total body panel makeover so that their vehicle will match, with exquisite precision, their vision.
What Is a Body Panel Makeover?
Restoring and replacing body panels is a great way to restore and renew your vehicle. A body panel makeover is the replacement of one or more panels on a vehicle. The automotive body panel is a sophisticated assortment of large, uniquely-shaped steel sections. These panels compose the shell of the vehicle, providing a solid mount and covering for the vehicle’s systems and protection for the vehicle’s occupants against collisions and from the elements.
You might consider, then, replacing a door panel that has been dented, or a trunk or hood panel that’s been burned. Whatever piece is being replaced requires a great deal of skill and precision so that the parts fit together as precisely as they should and so that everything looks perfect.
How Do You Engineer a Total Panel Makeover?
The first step to committing to a panel makeover is to develop a plan. Developing a plan means establishing your budget and checking prices and also figuring out in what order you want to do the work. Another consideration is where will the work be performed. Even a standard home garage that looks like there is a ton of extra room can quickly be overwhelmed by the space required for serious bodywork.
Once you’ve done some basic figuring, it’ll be time to round up all of the tools and supplies that you’ll need to perform the work. It’s not uncommon for weekend warriors to check in with their local auto body restoration professionals when developing their arsenals of tools and equipment.
How Do You Deal With Rust During a Makeover?
Rust can be an unsightly nuisance on any vehicle. Generally, the process by which to remove rust involves removing any chipped paint or rust and sanding down that particular section of the panel. Different grits of sandpaper should be used and the sanded area should be larger than the area of rust so that there will be space to feather the edges. Feathering is a way to ensure that the newly refreshed part of the panel matches the rest of the car.
With Jeeps and other off-road vehicles, fenders, doors, grilles and other body parts are all subject to damage out in the woods. Jeep rust repair panels can go a long way to restoring any vehicle that’s been to battle in the hinterlands to its former glory.
Whether you’re looking to install a performance transmission, drivetrain or ignition system or are just looking to do some light bodywork, there always seems to be something that can be done to upgrade your vehicle. Visit an auto parts store today to find the parts and accessories that you need to ensure a handsome, sleek and dependable ride tomorrow.
