Non-Structural Analysis & Damage Repair Flashcards

When using metal shrinking techniques on a stretched panel, which tool applies localized heat to gather excess metal?

Answer: Shrinking hammer or torch

A shrinking hammer or carefully applied torch heat gathers stretched metal back to its original area.

What is the primary purpose of feather-edging during body repair?

Answer: To create a tapered transition between paint layers and bare metal

Feather-edging tapers the edges of existing paint to bare metal so the repair blends smoothly.

Body filler should be applied to a surface that has been prepared to what condition?

Answer: Clean bare metal scuffed with 80-grit

Filler adheres best to clean bare metal scuffed to give a mechanical bite, typically with 80-grit.

Which welding process is generally preferred for thin automotive sheet metal repair?

Answer: MIG (GMAW) welding

MIG welding gives controlled heat and clean welds suited to thin automotive sheet metal.

Excessive heat during welding on a panel most commonly causes what problem?

Answer: Warping and distortion

Too much heat warps and distorts thin sheet metal, requiring additional straightening.

What is the recommended maximum thickness for plastic body filler over a repair?

Answer: About 1/4 inch

Body filler should not exceed roughly 1/4 inch to maintain strength and prevent cracking.

Stress relieving on a damaged panel should generally be done in what order relative to the impact area?

Answer: From the outer edges of damage toward the point of impact

Working from the outer damage edges inward unlocks stress and lets the metal return naturally.