I Need Some Body Work Info

[Opie Knievel]

I've always worked on my own cars. Up till now though, I've never really needed to do any real body work. I've replaced fenders and hoods, etc. but never cut out panels and welded them back or used body filler or stuff like that. When I bought my '86 Monte Carlo I decided that it would be the car that I learned body work on. I asked my dad, who's a great body man, if he would teach me how to do the work and he said yes. The problem is that since then his cancer has gotten worse and now he's not able to get out in the garage and show me. So, I'm gonna have to teach myself. I was wondering if anyone here knew of any good resources that I could use to learn body work on my own.

 

[ssn696]

Kevin Tetz's videos might be a good start. Look on Eastwood's or Amazon. I haven't been ready to part with $150 for the set, but if you want to share the cost....

 

[Texas82GP]

My brother bought back his high school car in 2006. He graduated in 88 and sold it to my uncle in 89. It was a beater in the 80's. Sorry, it's a 78 Z28. The car was rough. If it hadn't been for the sentimental aspect of the car it probably wasn't worth fixing. I could easily see we were going to have to weld on it so I took a class at community college and learned to mig on plate. Then my dad and brother bought a little Hobart Handler 140 and I taught myself to weld on sheet metal. For me, it's just one of those things that takes practice and I just learned on the job so to speak. There is a ton of information online. What you will find is different people use different approaches. I'm no body man but I've managed to do some good work. I'd be happy to answer any questions. I'm sorry to hear about your dad. I hope he gets better soon.

 

[Opie Knievel]

ssn696, I'm considering those DVD's. I've seen videos of Kevin before and he seems like a good teacher.

Texas82GP, Thanks for the kind words about my dad. Unfortunately, he doesn't have long left. I kinda regret not learning more from him. Dad taught himself though so I figure I can give it a try. I have a MIG welder. A Hobart Handler 190. I can weld a little bit. I'll practice more before I start on the car. Thank you for the offer to answer questions. I may take you up on that. I'm sure I'll have plenty.