If you are not one of the 100 million people who have already watched Somebody That I Used to Know by Walk off the Earth, take a few minutes to watch it.

Click here to view the embedded video.

It’s not the song, but the teamwork.  I thought this was pretty darn cool.  So you may be wondering, what the heck does this have to do with collision repair!

Well, online and anytime the industry is telling me what they expect from students I hear the word TEAMWORK…along with work ethics, attitude, etc.  In fact, we recently were going though our NATEF inspection at Butler and one of the team members from Carstar expressed this exact point.  He said it is important for the students to learn how to work as a team.

Why Team Work In Collision Repair

Times are changing and so are the way body shops do business.  Technicians may not have their independent work stall and do their own thing as they used to.  For instance, during the inspection, the ETL of NATEF called Rusty ECK Ford to ask about one of our former students that went to work for Rusty ECK.  He mentioned that the student had a good attitude and that he was willing to work as a part of their team.   At Rusty ECK, the technicians must work together.  The technician that takes a car apart, may not be the technician that puts the car back together.  That is why is important for everyone there to be on the same page .  Using specific uniform procedures, such as bagging and labeling parts will eliminate communication errors with your co-workers.

I do not know all of the facts about how Rusty ECK operates, but I have been told by the body shop manager that they work in teams and teamwork is important to him.

Teamwork Can Earn More Income

At one of our advisory meeting teamwork was brought up by several Auto Craft employees.  Two of them team together on the paint side.  The lead painter even switches positions with his team member.  He’ll prep and buff for a few weeks and let the other painter paint the vehicles.  He said this prevents either one of them from burning out from prepping or painting.  I thought  that was an excellent idea.  I can’t remember the number, but with the teamwork system they use, they are able to push an enormous amount of work through the paint shop each week.

Advice

So if you are looking to advance and excel in the collision repair industry, music industry, or just about any other job, start learning how to work with others well.  You may be surprised how more you can accomplish with others, as opposed by yourself.

• Together
• Everyone
• Accomplishes
• More

What Are Your Thoughts On Teamwork?

This is a video response about primers.  There are so many different primers, how do you know which one to use for your car?  I’ll do my best to explain it in this video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Bare Metal

1. Self Etch Primer (acid) or
2. Epoxy Primer

Filling Scratches, Body Work, etc.

1. Primer Surfacer aka Primer Filler or Fill Primer must be sanded

Alternative Option

Direct To Metal Primer (corrosion protection + filling) must be sanded

Color Hiding

1. Primer Sealer (not required, but helps hide and cover color variations)

There are other primers and systems out there, such as tinted primers, UV primers, but this may become confusing if you are not familiar with them, so we’ll keep it to the basics.  However, I do recommend all 2k (two-part) primers, except for the etch primer which is a 1k primer.  2k simply means the primer mixes with a catalyst making it a two-part.

In response to This is in response to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_SJSyExkJI

After teaching high school students for 3 years, it was obvious that we are educating students who don’t want to be at school.  It made me question why we spend so much money at a cookie cutter education system.  No, we’re not all the same and we’re not all going to attend a four year university.

I believe more emphasis should be on technical programs to provide more alternative career pathways to meet the needs of these students and the workforce.

Check out how this school in Arizona is offering specialized training in forty different careers.

Why spend money on students who do not want to be there? Why not develop more programs such as this that will motivate the students to attend school and provide jobs for the workforce. This is a win/win….what do you think?

Click here to view the embedded video.

Align Panels

Align Door and Trunk Gaps To Quarter Panel

In this tutorial we are going to take the quarter panel off of a 1966 Mustang. First, we need to align the adjacent panels to the quarter panel so the new quarter panel will fit properly when installed. If you don’t First align the door and the deck lid to the quarter panel you will have problems when trying to align the quarter panel. To align the door loosen up the hinge blots and adjust as needed to properly align the door to quarter panel gaps.  Next loosen the bolts holding the deck lid in place to make necessary adjustments to align the deck lid to quarter panel.

 If Damaged, Repair The Damage

If the quarter panel is damaged, obviously, it’s not going to fit or aligned properly. Therefore, you must rough out the damage in order to assure the body lines align and the new quarter panel will fit correctly.

Once the damage is straightened and the gaps are aligned properly you can begin removing the quarter panel. To start removing the quarter panel you will need to use a drill to drill out the spot welds. We’re doing this project as a DIY project at our house as you may be.  Therefore, we are using basic tools which will allow you to do this from home as well.

 Finding The Spot Welds

Example Of Spot Weld Locations

Spot welds are easy to identify.  They are a small dimple in the metal.  However, there may be locations where seam sealer or other coating are covering them up.  If there is seam sealer of other coating, it must be cleaned of before locating the spot weld location.  A wire brush, sanding, or scraping will help remove the coating from the area.  Once cleaned, the spot welds can be located.

Properly Using A Drill When Drilling Metal

Use A Lubricant Gel or Spray To Help Bit From Over Heating

Any type of drill will work but in this tutorial we’re simply using a cordless drill. The trick to drilling metal, is using good quality drill bits, drilling at a slow RPM, and using a lubricant jell or spray.  Not using high-quality drill bits, drilling with too high of a speed, or not using a lubricant will lead to burning and dulling the drill bit, which makes it difficult and time consuming to when drilling metal.

There are other methods for removing spot welds, but most of them require an air compressor.

Drill Through Both Panels

Drilling Through Both Panel With 9/64 Drill Bit

Using a 9/64 drill bit, drill through the center of the spot welds. If you have a problem with the drill walking on or moving around it may be wise to use a center punch and hammer to tap a small indention in the center of the spot weld location .  Drill both panels with the smaller 9/64 drill bit.

Drill Through Outer Panel

Drilled Spot Weld Examples

After the small hole has been drilled a larger bit 5/16 can be used to drill out the spot weld.  When using the bigger bit, you only want to drill through the outside panel.

Separating An Outer Panel Using A Seam Buster

Once all spot welds have been drill, use a seam buster to separate the panels. This is done by hammering the chisel edge of the seam buster between the panels.

 Making A Rough Cut At Section Location

Making Rough Cut

The Seam Buster also comes in useful when making rough cuts as we did on this Mustang project.  Now that the quarter panel is off, you can start preparing the vehicle for the new quarter panel. However, we are going to have to do additional work before continuing this quarter panel replacement due to the rusted wheelhouse on the Mustang.

Quarter Panel After Removed

Step 1: Remove Rear Bumper Extensions – To remove extensions use a 1/2 socket to remove the right and left bolt holding the top of the extensions on. The top bolts can be accessed from inside the trunk area.  The lower bolts will need to be access from underneath the car.

Step 2: Remove Rear Roll Pan – The roll pan will need to be removed to gain access to the spot welds on the back of the quarter panel.  Using a phillips screwdriver unscrew the roll pan from the rear body panel.

Step 3: Punch An Indention in Center of Spot Welds – To prevent the drill bit from moving, use a center punch and hammer to make an indention in center of spot welds location.

Step 4: Drill Through Both Panels at Spot Welds Locations – Using a 9/64 drill bit, drill in the center of each spot weld location.  Drill through both panels, but care should be taken not to drill though interior parts or anything that may be damaged on the other side. This may require removal of interior parts.

Step 5: Drill Through Outside Panel – Using a 5/16 drill bit, drill though the outside panel only.  This will remove the spot weld.

Step 6: Separate Panels Using a Seam Buster – Once you have drilled out all the spot welds a Seam Buster can be used to separate the outer panel from the inner panel.

Step 7: Make Rough Cuts Using Seam Buster – Using the Seam Buster, make a rough cut at section location.  Be sure that you leave yourself extra metal so the final cut can be made later when installing the new quarter panel.

Step 8: Remove Quarter Panel – Now simply remove the old panel from the Mustang.  Gloves should be worn to protect yourself from sharp edges from the rough cut and spot weld locations.

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In this tutorial I am going to show you how to replace a quarter panel on the 1966 Ford Mustang. The quarter panel on the Mustang is rusted out as many older cars do.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Quarter panels are welded on panels that may be required to replace if involved in an accident or if rusted severely as with the Mustang we’re working on. Weld- on panels require drilling spot welds. Before you start cutting and drilling, you will need to remove the necessary parts to prevent from damaging then or to access the spot weld locations.

Since this was rusted, we will not need to repair the quarter panel before we beginning. If the quarter panel had damage caused by a collision it would be necessary to first straighten straighten the quarter panel to realign the structure to realign all the body gaps.

The first thing you want to do as with any part is check the part to make sure that you have the correct part. Many times the wrong part may have been ordered or the wrong part was shipped. This is not something you want to realize after you have removed the part. It only takes a second set it up to the car to assure you have the correct panel. Next remove any parts necessary to access the spot welds. Below are the first steps to take when replacing the quarter panel:

Step 1: Remove Rear Bumper

To locate the bolts holding the bumper on open the trunk lid and locate two 5/8” blots one each side inside the trunk area. Once the four bolts are removed the bumper is ready to take off the Mustang.

Step 2: Remove Taillight Assembly

From inside the trunk area locate four 3/8 inch bolts. Remove the four bolts, unplug the taillamp plug and remove the taillamp assembly.

Step 3: Remove Quarter Panel Extension

From inside the trunk area locate three 7/16 inch bolts holding the extension filler on. Remove the bolts and then remove the extension filler.

Step 4: Remove Interior Parts

Quarter panel interior panels may need to be removed to access spot welds, to prevent damaging, or from drilling through the interior when drilling spot welds. However, on this Mustang, the spot weld locations are not near the interior trim panel. We decided to go ahead and remove the interior trim, as we will be restoring the inside as well.

Step 5: Remove Back Glass Trim

Using a glass trim removal tool, we removed the trim will need to be removed to prevent damaging it.

Summary

We removed the back bumper, taillamp assembly, quarter panel extension filler panel, quarter panel trim, and the back glass trim. Now we’re ready to start drilling spot welds. We’ll cover the steps in the next tutorial.

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Click here to view the embedded video.

This is response to http://www.youtube.com/all_comments?v=XW3wp2bhqgE

The question: Do they sell epoxy primer in spray cans? In the video, I state that I am not aware of a 2k epoxy product. However, thankful to our YouTube friends, they mentioned a line of paint that does have 2k products in spray cans. If I understand it correctly, you must use all of the primer within a certain amount of time or it will harden. Don’t know much about this line of products, but I did a little research and found a resource for it. You can learn more at http://CollisionBlast.com/SprayCanEpoxy

It’s time for students to start getting ready for the world of work.  They’ve spent hours in training awaiting graduation so they can go make their mark in the world.  May is almost here graduation is approaching, now what?

One of the first thing students will need to do is to prepare their resume’ for potential employers to see.  Hours may be spent crafting the perfect resume’ spotlighting all of the student’s abilities and knowledge.  However, all of this training, knowledge, the and resume’ is useless, if it’s never read.

Just because you prepare a resume’ does not mean an employer will see your credentials according to this study.  Your resume’ can be thought of as a speech.  Don’t they say, it not what you say, but how you say it?

A resume’ is all about looks.  It’s not about what you write, but how it looks.  This study shows that it must be clear and easy to read.  If it is a page crammed full of words, it may not be read.  It’s what you say in 6 seconds that counts.  Read the full article and think about it before preparing your resume’. Read The Full Article Here

If you are looking for a job in the collision repair industry check out these listings Collision Repair Jobs.

Have you ever wondered where to find the color code for your car?  If  you have, this is a quick post to let you know about a tool I found on the internet that helps you find you color code.  This is a very simple tools to created by PPG.  All you need is your year, make and model.  Just click and point. 

It is called Paint It.  Visit CollisionBlast.com/Paint-It to learn more.  Give it a try.

If you want to receive all of our updated, look for the subscribe to newsletter to the right side of this website.  Just add your first name and email address.

I read an article this morning where one of our fellow Body Shop owner’s needs help for their kid.  Helping each other out is what it is all about, isn’t it.  No, this is not a life or death situation, but if the collision repair industry has been kind to you this year, it’s time to help a fellow body shop owner in need.  It is for his daughter…..what would you do for your kids?  I know I would do whatever it takes for my kids and I am sure you would too.

The daughter, Ashley Sabbatini,  was diagnosed with moderate-to-severe sensorineural hearing loss when she was 4.  She is now 18 years old and has dreams to study speech and hearing and become an audiologist to help individuals like her.

Their goal amount to raise is not that unrealistic, the operations are going to run $62,000.  But with the body shop business slow and the mother’s hours cut at her job, and insurance not helping, $62,000 can be impossible to come up with.

Think about it…we all want everything possible for our own kids.  It’s a shame that a dollar amount stands in the way of this family helping their daughter regain her hearing.

I am reaching out to everyone in the collision repair industry to help if you are able to.  Every little bit will help.

To read the full article visit http://www.sunherald.com/2012/04/06/3867703/community-raises-funds-for-teens.html   After reading the full article click on the link Ashely’s Dream To Hear to donate.

Automotive/Collision Repair Training Event and Webinars.

SEMA Education Institute Online -  

The SEMA Education Institute eLearning Center is open 24/7 and contains a vast library of courses that you can download and listen to at your convenience.

Thursday, April 26, 2012 at 12:00 PM EDT

Free Webinar – Spot Welding Techniques

Produced by Automotive Body Repair Network and I-CAR. Over the past several years, spot welding has advanced significantly and has become the preferred welding technique for many vehicle makers. One advantage being that spot welding has a smaller heat-affect zone, creating a less adverse affect on materials. During this webcast, experts from I-CAR will explain how to properly perform spot welding techniques that simulate what is done at the factory. You will learn how spot welding, in conjunction with adhesives (weld bonding), can help protect against corrosion.  Register For Free Webinar

April 17-18, 2012

Masters – Leadership, Management and Marketing

Leadership, Management and Marketing is the first classof its kind that brings together the three components of success as the name implies. Many books have been written on the three subjects. Masters has connected the dots between all three components of success.Leadership is sorely lacking in business today.  Register online http://www.masters-school.com/class_schedule.php

April 11 at 1 p.m. (EST).

Free Webinar Will Give ASA Members Details of LogMyCalls Benefit

This live webinar will allow you to ask questions while you learn all the details about this new benefit, including how to set up your free account, how it can help improve your marketing, save you money, and how to use it to help train your staff. You can sign up now for the free webinar by visiting www.logmycalls.com/webinar.

Thursday, April 5, 2012 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM CDT

Free Webinar “The KEY Indicators of a Healthy, Vibrant Auto Repair Business”

Listen up and you will hear a unique perspective from Greg about “The KEY Indicators of a Healthy Vibrant Auto Repair Business”.
Greg has 25 stores in operations as of today, PLUS more opening in 2012. Put this SHOWCASE on speaker phone and invite your entire staff!  Register For FREE Training Webinar

Car dents or major collision repairs are a sad fact of driving for some.  Whether it’s a simple fender bender or something much more impactful, car accidents ultimately lead to taking a visit to your local body shop for an estimate and repair.  And depending on what coverage plan your auto insurance is under, the price can vary.

But what should be clear above all else is the dents need to be fixed.  From general appearance on down to maximum performance, there are a number of reasons why getting your dents and damage fixed can benefit down the road.

 Keeping Up With Appearances

Would you really be comfortable driving down the road with a missing rear bumper or taped down hood?  I wouldn’t.  Aside from protecting the metal frame and gears and shafts underneath, your car’s exterior aesthetics should be looking its absolute best.  With as much care and attention you put towards your car with a simple car wash, it makes just as much sense to outfit and maintain your car’s body accordingly.  This means checking for cracks, scratches and paint chips and having them buffed to a mirror shine whenever possible.

Maximize Performance

From an aerodynamic perspective, most modern cars have been molded to drive efficiently with and against the wind.  This affects how well your car’s fuel economy standards are, among other things.  Now imagine how strained your car’s drive would be on the open road with wind patterns rolling off of a loose bumper?  And in extreme cases where the wind speed approaches 25+ miles, the grab and pull on a loose rear bumper can take precious seconds off your car’s performance, or worse, the high winds could pull a loose bumper completely off the body of your car.

A great example of a car being hindered from a dent is what happened to my old 1989 Honda Accord.  I accidently ran the front bumper into a wooden post and hit it just hard enough to push the dent down dangerously close to the tire.  It was still driveable after I got the headlight fixed, but since I ignored the dent for the time being, the more I drove, and the more bumps or potholes I ran across, the closer my tire would shave up against the dent, causing the tread to thin out.  Luckily, the tire itself didn’t pop or burst before I took it in to get it fixed, although that is definitely a possibility from dent negligence.

And it’s no coincidence that ignoring a leaky oil pipe or cracked water pump will come back to bite your car’s performance, let alone allowing it to start or idle properly.  Same goes with the alignment being compromised from a fender bender or being too aggressive over a speed bump or curb.

 State Laws

Depending on the state you live in, many inspections at the local DMV require the car’s exterior to complement the car’s working condition.  With that, I mean many cars can’t pass inspection if it’s missing a tail pipe, has a cracked headlight or tail light, has a pushed-in door or any number of collision-related issues.  And for good reason.  The car must be in working condition and have the appearance that every part is secure enough to not pose a hazard for the driver or other drivers on the road.

And that’s the thing with dents and collision repair:  it can cost the driver more money in the end because of one dent leading to other headaches later on.  Obviously no one likes the thought of car repair or inspections, but they are necessary for making sure your car is of the highest order.

 About The Author: Kyle is a freelance writer and automotive enthusiast who contributes for a local car dealership, Cable Dahmer of Kansas City, which specializes in Chevy cars and trucks, auto repair needs and much more.

Vision High-Tech Training and Expo is one of the top automotive training events held every year in Overland Park, Kansas.  Sheri Hamilton has always done an outstanding job of putting the training event and expo together each year for people from all over the country to attend automotive related training.

Here is a quick video of Pete Meier interviewing PowerBlock TV host, Courtney Hansen last month at Vision 2012.

I mentioned to Sheri that I was jealous that she held one of the top training events each year, but did not include collision repair training this year.  However, this is not from a lack of trying.  Sheri has incorporated collision repair training in the past, but found it hard to get  collision repair technicians to attend.  I attended a few years ago when collision repair was included and the training was great, but there were not enough participation from the collision repair industry to justify continuing collision repair training.

I can’t understand why more collision repair technicians would not be interested in this event.  Perhaps March is a busy time for body shops….storms, hail damage, etc.  I think it would be great if Vision includes collision repair training at future  Vision training events.

Anyway, kudos to Sheri for the hard work and awesome job she does putting together one of the best automotive training events each year.

To learn more about upcoming Vision training and expo held each March, visit  Vision High-Tech Training and Expo.

What is your favorite training event?

I just read an article on ABRN’s website that says the government is going to fund 14.2 million to accelerate the development of lighter and stronger vehicles.  According to the article in ABRN the funds will support the development of carbon fiber composites and advanced and advanced steels and allows.

The push for lighter vehicles is to improve fuel mileage.  You can read the full article at ABRN.

What Does This Mean For The Repair Industry?

One thing I think they need to include in their research when developing these new materials is how cars going to be repaired if damaged.   Or is the idea of totaling most cars that have been involved in an accident the plan?

It sounds to me that auto collision repair shops better be ready for changes heading our way.  At SEMA 2011 I heard about more aluminum and new repair methods heading our way.  3M is also in the process of developing metals and materials to produce paintless cars and now the additional funding to accelerate  the development of lightweight materials is going to change the repair methods in our industry.

It is going to be interesting to see what the automotive industry looks like in 5 to 10 years.  One thing is certain, it’s changing and it may be sooner then we realize.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Lead Filler

Lead has been around for many years.  It was used as one of the first filers to fill imperfections on car parts.  There are still a few custom shops around that use lead, but most shops have started using lead-free solder or body filler.

If you are a lead fanatic then you probably know the name Bill Hines.  He has been working with lead and became know as the leadslinger and king of leading.  Bill was born in 1922 and starting using lead in 1941.  He has customizing cars since the 1040‘s and it is said that he still works 7 days per week.  This means lead has been working well for many years and still being used today for the right applications.

Lead can be used a s a filler to fill imperfections and to seal welded seams.  Lead is not used much anymore due to the health hazards of lead as it has been outdated with plastic body fillers.

Lead Free Body Solder

A new lead-free version body solder has been developed if you are a lead enthusiast and want to produce the same quality results.  The lead-free body solder is used much like the older leads.  The metal still requires to be tinned, solder applied with heat and smoothed with wooden paddles, then shaped using a body file.  You can also sand or grind this solder without the worry of breathing harmful lead particles.  While this is a safer leading alternative, a proper mask should still be worn as when sanding any type of filler.

 The Benefits of Lead

• Lead seals much better than body filler.  Therefore, you can lead straight over welds, section location, pillars, or anywhere else exceptional sealing properties are required.  Once the lead is shaped, you are ready for primer.
• Lead flexes well with the metal without cracking.  However, body fillers have improved through the years and flexes as well, but lead is superior for flexing without cracking.
• If you are slightly low on an edge or body line, lead provides a better edge that body filler.  In fact, body filler is not recommended for building edges or body lines.

The Disadvantages of Lead

• It take more skill to use lead.  It requires more training and practice to perfect leading than body filler.
• Leading is a much slower process.  As mentioned, you must prep the metal by tinning it, using heat to soften and apply the lead or solder, then smooth it out with wooden paddles.  Then using a body filler to smooth the lead or solder smooth.  If you are filling a large area, you may have to break the filling process into smaller sections.
• Lead does not work well on thinner metals.  More care must be taken when working with thinner metals to prevent overheating or weakening the metal.  Since heat and filing is required to use lead, it will not work well on thinner metals.
• Lead is harder than body filler which makes it harder to level or sand.
• Lead is often referred to as becoming a part of the metal.  However, I do not agree with this statement.  In order for this to happen, the metals must be a fused together.  This requires both metals to melt together and become one piece.  For instance, when welding, both metal pieces are melted and fused together.  However, when brazing, only the brass is melted.  Brazing is not considered a fusion weld.  While both brazing and lead provide excellent sealing properties, they are not a fusion process.  Therefore, lead does not become a part of the panel.

I still prefer using plastic auto body filler.  However, if this is something you want to explore for your project or to learn I have additional step-by step directions and where you can find this type of products at Auto Body Filler Guide

Have you ever had to decide between a 4 wheeler to play on land and a jet ski to play in water?  I guess if you do not live by a lake or river the decision would be easy.  However, if you are having troubles deciding, why not have both!  Check out this cool video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Isn’t that cool!  I want one of these.  The only problem I see is bottoming out and knowing a hole in the hull.  I don’t know, but I still want one.  It looks like fun to me.  What do you think?

I stumbled onto this video that also has a course you may find interesting.  I have posted videos in the past demonstrating space or spray can art, but this has a course that will teach you how to do it.  It is not really  automotive airbrush painting, but if you are like me, all types of painting amazes me.  I am one of those guys that have to stop and watch every time I see someone demonstrating space art or even airbrushing t-shirts at a mall.

Check out this video.  You can learn more about the course at CollisionBlast.com/SprayPaintArtSecrets

Click here to view the embedded video.

This Membership Site For Learning Spray Paint Art. There Is A Thriving Community Of Street And Spray Paint Artists Online And In The World. This Site Teaches Spray Paint, Street, And Graffiti Artists How To Take Their Skills To The Next Level And Do Fine Art.

Check out there website to learn more.  Visit CollisionBlast.com/SprayPaintArtSecrets

COLLISION REPAIR TECHNICIAN

FERRARI BROS. BODY SHOP (Monrovia, California)

Auto Rust Repair – In part 1, we are going to learn how to cut out a rust hole.

Click here to view the embedded video.

This is part I of auto rust repair tutorial.  This lesson we are going to talk about cutting out the rusted damaged area and welding in a new piece of metal.

Determine Extent of Rust

The first thing you want to do is determine, where the rust is located and the extent of the rust. Rust is really not that hard to find. Obviously, if there is a hole, that is easy to find, but a lot of time the rust does not eat all of the way through the metal you may be able to repair the rust without having to cut out a section of the panel and adding a new piece to the panel.

Where Does Rust Come From?

Rust starts forming on the metal underneath the paint or from the backside. For different reasons, it could be due to salt on the roads that cause rust, it could be mud getting caught behind this area and not being cleaned, which results in the moisture causing it to rust, it could have had a repair in this area before and didn’t have the proper corrosion protection applied to the metal.  But for whatever reason, the rust starts forming on the metal. At this point you can’t see it, but as it starts spreading and growing it starts pushing the paint out and will bubbling the paint outward.

The First Indication Of Rust

When you see bubbled paint, this is the first indication there may be rust underneath it. This is the time you want take action and repair the rusted area.  At this stage you may not have to cut the rusted area out and replace it with a patch panel repair panel.

Determining The Extent of Rust

To determine how bad the rust is, use a screw driver or scratch awl to push on the bubbled area.  This will flake some of the rust out, but if does not push through, you may able to clean that area up, grind to bare metal, and apply corrosion protection.  The the part can be refinished, which will protect the panel from rusting again.

A Rust Hole

If the screw driver or scratch awl does push through or if it is too extensive to repair, it is going to require cutting out the rusted surface and replace area with new metal.

Before Cutting

Before you start cutting determine how big of an area needs to be removed.  Just because you have a quarter size hole does not mean that the rust is just in that area. Chances are it has spread behind the panel more than that.  So you want to grind the rust area to the metal and make sure the outside rust is removed.  Now you should be able to determine how thick the metal is around the edges.  You want to make your patch big enough to where the new patch is going to be welded to good metal on the panel.  Most of the time you are going to have to extend out where the rust was present to three or four inches past the area to assure  you are going to be cutting and welding to good metal.

Marking The Cut Line

Once you have determined where to cut, the easiest way I have found to mark the cut line is to use masking tape.  It is really not that necessary to spend a lot of time measuring to make perfect measured mark lines, as the piece cut out is what will be use as a template to make the patch repair.  I lay out the masking tape around the area to be cut out and use the masking tape edge make the cut.  Many time you will be by an edge flange where the metal wraps around the panel.  There will be several spot welds on the inside of the flange, which will need to be drilled out.

Making The Cut

Once the tape is  laid out use a cut off saw to make the cut along the tape edge.  Care must be taken not to cut into any inner panels, as you do not want to cut into inner panels.  You may have to carefully cut the outside panel taking care not to cut all the way through other components of the car.

Following the tape line, make the cut all the way around the rusted area and drill out the spot welds if there are any on the flange area.  Try to remove the rusted area with a little damage to it as possible.  The piece need to be removed if one piece if possible so it can be used as a template when making the new patch panel.  When the entire edge is rusted, the panel can’t really use the entire piece. In this case, use masking tape to lay out the shape of the panel.

Check Metal For Thickness

Make sure that your edges are good metal that you will be welding to.  Now you are ready to start fabricating your new panel or preparing a pre-shaped repair panel that can be purchased.  Pre-shaped repair panels make the job much easier, but with a few basic tools, you can fabricate some of the panels yourself, if they are not too complex or have multiple body lines.

The students did an outstanding job on this corvette. After watching the video, you will hear how excited the auto body repair instructor is and how proud he is of the students that painted the car. I can relate with him, I still remember the first car that I painted in high school and how it felt to step back and see the end results. It still excites me to step back and see something I sprayed that turned out good. However, not all of mine turn out as I hoped and that can be very discouraging as well.

As the instructor in the video, I get excited when a student’s paint job turn out good too. After all of these years, I still get the rush from seeing the finished project.

Watch this video and you will hear the pride this instructor has for his students.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Kudos to the collision repair students and instructor at Colonial High School in Orlando, Florida.  They made some SMC (sheet molded compound) repairs to the vette body, stripped the old paint finish and repainted the car complete.  You can see from the video they did an outstanding job.  The corvette looks absolutley great and they all deserve a thumbs up for their effort.

Click here to view the embedded video.

I would like to give a shout out to Liquid Design Custom Paint and Airbrush.  They have been a long time follower on my YouTube channel and have been very helpful by providing comments to the videos.

The business is located at 2132 US Highway 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778.  They perform custom paint and airbrushing.  You can see from the video that they do outstanding work.

Kudos to Liquid Design and thanks for being a YouTube subscriber.

I would like to encourage everyone to visit their Facebook page and follow them.  The link to their Facebook is located below.

Facebook Page – CollisionBlast.com/LiquidDesign

iPhone App – CollisionBlast.com/LiquidDesignApp

Video – CollisionBlast.com/LiquidDesignVideo

Watch this video to learn about this app. If your kids are out speeding, the parents get a text notification. This is cool for the parents to have peace on mind. However, I must admit, I am glad they didn’t have this when I was a kid. With my younger days in mind, you can bet I am going to use this when my kid starts driving.

Watch the video and let us know what you think.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Learning to do some of your own car maintenance will save you money and help your car last longer.  In this tutorial, you will learn how to replace windshield wipers.  This only take a few minutes and you can buy new wipers at Walmart or any parts store.  Follow the simple steps below to do this yourself.

1. Determine the length of your windshield wipers.  You can do this by using a tape measure to measure the length of your blase, compare the new blades with the old blades, or ask for assistance at a parts store.  By providing the make and model of your vehicle, they can tell you which wipers your vehicle takes.
2. Remove the old wiper blade by pushing in on the clip and pulling down.
3. Compare old wiper with the new wiper to assure you have the correct part.
4. Reverse the process to install.  Make sure you hear the clip to assure the wiper is properly secured.

That is it…simple to do and will save you money on your car maintance expence.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Steven Schillinger

(888) 374-7475

RENO, NEVADA – January 16th – GRC-Pirk Management, managers of www.haps6h.com, announced they will provide a complimentary template along with telephone consultation to collision repair centers subject to the annual notification requirements under EPA Regulation 40 CFR 63 Subpart 6H: Paint Stripping and Miscellaneous Surface Coating Operations at Area Sources.

The firm’s Senior Environmental Engineer, Shannon McDaniel stated, “The EPA requires all spray coating operations to comply with the NESHAP 6H Rule, meaning most body shops must file an annual notification. In support of the EPA Collision Repair Campaign, we are helping shops navigate through the confounding language and confusing requirements of the compliance codes, until the reporting deadline of February 29, 2012.”

Steven E. Schillinger, GRC-Pirk President said, “Although the January 10, 2011 compliance deadline has long since passed, spray coating operations are still required to report compliance or risk violation. By not reporting compliance, there is a risk of violating the Clean Air Act.” Schillinger continued, “Knowing how to follow the HAPs 6H requirements can benefit those working in the collision repair industry, both economically and environmentally.”

About the EPA Collision Repair Campaign (www.epa.gov/collisionrepair) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency developed the Collision Repair Campaign to focus on meaningful risk reduction in the Collision Repair source sector to complement the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ongoing community air toxics work and attain reductions at a faster rate. The Campaign serves as an opportunity for shops to work towards compliance with the Paint Stripping and Miscellaneous Surface Coating HAPs 6H Rule.

About HAPs 6H Report (www.haps6h.com/Pdfs/HAPS_6H_Annual_Notification_Report.pdf) GRC-Pirk Management created haps6h.com for state and local authorities to assist building owners in eco-friendly fulfillment on a professional engineering basis, enabling third party validation, verification, and documentation. Engineers managing haps6h.com have extensive experience in climate, energy and compliance measures, having consulted on issues ranging from permitting, to greenhouse gas calculations. Each engineer is committed to building sustainable solutions for clients and executing the most appropriate course of action to secure the most favorable outcome.

###

Click here to view the embedded video.

Watch This Video Full Screen:  www.CollisionBlast.com/CarCrash1

If you had a car wreck, would you know what to do.  Car crashes happen ever day and is a normal occurrence to police officers, auto body shops, and insurance adjusters.  However, there are many people that have never been involved in an auto accident.  Therefore, no thought or preparation has been given to what they should do, if they do have a fender bender.

Having a car accident is a stressful experience.  Although, you can take a few steps to prepare yourself if this should ever happen.  Of course, no one wants to plan on having an accident, but if you will follow the steps in the video, you will know what should be done, if you should ever have a wreck.

This video covers what should be done immediately after the accident.  In upcoming videos, I’ll discuss what steps can be taken throughout the whole process.  From the time you have the accident, until you have the keys back in your hands and your car back on the road.

Hopefully you will never need to use the tips given in this video, but at least you will have an idea of what to do.

 Resources:

www.CollisionBlast.com/AccidentKit – This is an accident kit as mentioned in the video.  The kit has many of the things, preprinted forms for collection information, etc.

By Grant Webb

With the wild ride of the financial markets in recent years, the automotive industry has taken its share of blows, yet despite the chaos of turbulent times, many companies are persevering, growing, and reaching into new markets. In the automotive industry the pressure to get a concept into production and out to consumers is extreme. For professionals looking to get in on a little of the success of the big guns, consider the role of Six Sigma training in your auto company’s repertoire for growth and long term viability.

Six Sigma in the Automotive Industry – A Case Study for Success
As many professionals with Six Sigma certification can tell you, Six Sigma training provides a template for overhauling the process of doing business in a cohesive way that reduces waste, streamlines resources, and produces changes that are data driven, profitable, and sustainable. In recent years, Chrysler’s “Imported from Detroit” campaign underscores the success of Six Sigma strategies that when applied with innovation, consistency and great skill can expedite growth, improve customer confidence, and increase product marketability.

In their 2010 sustainability report, Chrysler CEO’s indicated that Six Sigma strategies helped them to focus “on understanding the voice of the customer and driving product performance with functional robustness. It serves as the foundation for developing vehicles that delight our customers and improve their loyalty by enhancing quality, reliability and durability.”

Application to Small Automotive Companies

In its purest form, Six Sigma certification provides the standardized language and tools to identify data indicators that support aggressive goals; at the same time Six Sigma training teaches leaders how to measure, evaluate, and respond to the data; and lastly, the Six Sigma framework provides a template to drive change that is adaptable and sustainable. Looking at case studies of companies like Chrysler which have adapted Six Sigma strategies with success provides examples for smaller companies with fewer resources. More and more consumers and business stakeholders are recognizing Six Sigma as synonymous with business success. This may be one of the reasons why Chrysler chose to mention it to customers in its 2011 Dodge Charger marketing literature. Businesses big and small know that Six Sigma certification can help a company build client trust and brand confidence.

For professionals looking to grow a smaller business into a larger one, Six Sigma certification through a nationally ranked and fully accredited online program can offer a world-wide level of confidence, reputation, and success within a flexible learning environment custom built for today’s working professional. To compete with industry leaders, smaller businesses need to speak the same language and utilize business strategies that not only make sense, but are also recognized as best practice protocol across the industry.

Six Sigma training not only offers the skills and knowledge necessary for staying fully engaged in the race for 21st century business growth, but also affords professionals the opportunity to network with an elite group of leaders across industries whose ideas in business are driving economic growth and industry standards. You don’t want to be sitting on the side lines with the competition charging by you – Six Sigma certification leads to new opportunities for companies and their leaders who engage innovatively with the process and are willing to devote the time and resources into making change sustainable.

Conclusion

In today’s cut throat global marketplace, leaders need to be able to identify the best ways to collect the data that will bring positive momentum toward aggressive goals and lasting change. Change itself needs to be responsive and resilient, not only to marketplace indicators, but also consumer demands. In this age of instant social media reports and international brand chatter, it is vital that small companies employ strategies like Six Sigma which is recognized by many industry leaders worldwide as the gold standard for best practice business growth strategies, especially in a challenging economy.

As a Six Sigma certified professional, you will exhibit the strong commitment to professional and company growth that hiring professionals are looking for in today’s competitive marketplace. There are as many interpretations of Six Sigma strategies as there are innovative leaders heading Fortune 500 companies. To be innovative means that you have committed to the discipline of acquiring a standardized body of knowledge that could take you on the path of gaining the competitive advantage enjoyed by today’s most elite business leaders industry wide. If you feel your career is idling on the side lines, Six Sigma certification might be just what you need to kick up your performance into overdrive.

Click here to view the embedded video.

With more vehicles made out of aluminum, requires more aluminum repair for collision repair technician.

I visited with Steve Widen with 3M at SEMA 2011 and asked him what he thinks a few of the biggest challenges the collision repair industry faces.

Steve mentioned that vehicle technology is changing fast.  Getting the new repair methods to the repair shops is a challenge he feels is an issue.  We are not going to be able to use the same repair methods that we have in the past.  The industry must realize continuos training is essential to stay updated with new repair methods.

The other challenge Steve mentioned was aluminum repair.  Aluminum requires separate tools  used only for aluminum.  Using the same tools used on steel panels will cause galvanic corrosion.  Another thing Steve mentioned, was having a clean work station to repair aluminum.  If an aluminum repair is being repaired near another repair, the surface may get metal contaminates embedded into the aluminum surface.  This may not show up immediately, but with time the contaminates causing galvanic corrosion.

To prevent this, body shop’s are going to need separate work stations for aluminum repairs.

This is going to effect all body shops, as more vehicles are being made with aluminum parts.  The new F-150 Ford pick-up will consist of mostly aluminum.  It’s not just the higher end cars, but the average vehicles are being designed with much of the new technology, which will require new repair methods to consider.

For more things changing the collision repair industry, visit Collision Repair Trends.

Have you heard about the compressed air and hair dryer trick for repairing dents?  It’s nothing new, but I have been asked about this in the past.  However, I have never tried to use this method….until now!

I tested this method on three different types of dent on my Nissan pickup.  The videos I researched instructed to heat the area with the air dryer and then hold the compressed air upside down and spray the dent.

Do you think it worked for me?  Watch the video and let me know what you think.

Check out this week’s Auto Market Weekly.  You are using this oil are you?  If so, you better watch this video.

This show is for the auto end users, to learn which products or tips really work or not. Donnie Smith, ASE certified collision repair instructor is going to put these to the test from the end user’s perspective with no special tools or tricks from the trade. With all of the hype and advertising, some of these products sound very convincing, but do they really work? That is what we’re going to find out.

This week’s news blast is going to be short and to the point. I mentioned that I was going to start making a video for the updates, but I am a little sick and you probably would not be able to understand me…..so here are a few highlights.

Interview with Body Shop owner, Patrick Sampoll. Patrick is a previous student of mine and now owns and operated his own business. To learn more you can watch video or listen to podcast.
Where Are They Now

New video tutorial that teaches a method for tinting or smoking tail lights. How To Some Your Tail Lights 

New video series coming soon.  I am going to start a new video series that will be available Jan. 3rd, at blip.tv.  If you would like to know if a certain auto related product or trick works, let me know, as I will be putting it to the test in this show.  CollisionBlast.com/AutoShow

Jobs…are you looking for a job or looking for help.  Check out our auto body job listings.  CollisionBlast.com/Careers

Like I said, short and to the point this week.  Have a great week!

Click here to view the embedded video.

I watched this and just had to post it.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Welcome to this weeks MidWeek Auto Collision News Blast.  In this news blast, we are going to discuss SEMA 2011 videos, Thanksgiving, black friday, cyber monday, school semester coming to an end, a student success story, and much more.

To get all of the details, watch the video.  For the links referred to in the videos, read below.

Collision Blast Blog

• http://CollisionBlast.com

This News Blast

• http://CollisionBlast.com/NewsBlast7

SEMA YouTube Playlist

• http://CollisionBlast.com/SEMA2011

Black Friday – Cyber Monday

http://CollisionBlast.com/AutoDiscounts

RJ’s shout-out – Spray Can Art

• http://www.collisionblast.com/2011/11/20/spray-art-shout-out-to-rj-mysprayart/

Jody DeVere Videos

• http://www.collisionblast.com/2011/11/19/waaiyptw-jody-trimmed/
• http://www.collisionblast.com/2011/11/15/jody-devere-and-dr-bob-sutherland-pennzoil-breaks-down-motor-oil-myths/
• http://www.collisionblast.com/2011/11/14/national-toronto-womens-show-active-green-ross-askpatty-com/

Auto Collision Repair Jobs

• http://www.collisionblast.com/auto-body-collision-repair-careers-jobs-and-training/

Auto Collision Repair Scholarships

• http://www.collisionblast.com/collision-repair-student-supplies-for-college/auto-collision-repair-scholarships/

Subscribe To My YouTube Channel

• http://YouTube.com/ButlerCollision

 Happy Thanksgiving and thanks for reading this news blast.  If you liked the video or blog post, please share it with your friends.

Click here to view the embedded video.

In this video you will see a chopper bike be custom painted.  As it says in the video, it takes a lot of taping and airbrushing to do this type of work.  However, if you are willing to spend hours of work, the end result will work awesome.  Although, this type of work take a lot of practice to perfect.

For more airbrushing tips, visit www.CollisionBlast.com/Airbrush

In this series of posts, I am going to be researching and reflecting on one of the most profound leader’s/teacher’s of all times.  As a technical educator, I am always looking and learning new ways to teach others.  From every teaching conference or any method I learn, can always be traced back to this one teacher.

In this series, I am going to be reading and posting the reflections of Jesus.  I know there are many different beliefs concerning this, but I don’t think anyone disagrees that there was a man in history named Jesus that left behind some great lessons for us to follow.  Just like Abraham Lincoln, Gandhi, or Martin Luther King, they were all leaders in history, which we can learn from, we can also learn from Jesus as well.  I am not trying to lesson the belief in Jesus by claiming that he was just another person in history, but convey that he was a great leader we can all learn from, regardless of your belief.

For The Blue Collar Worker

I have been teaching and studying teaching styles for the past eight years, but when it is all said and done, I still just a hick blue collar worker and I will always be.  That is why I think this training will be a great tutorial for the other body shop technicians and managers out there.  As I going through this training, remember I am not claiming to be perfect or abide by all of these lessons, this is just what I feel we can learn together from the master, blue collar worker.

The second project we started on in class is a 2001 Ford Pick-up.  Here is a photo of the pickup before we started the work.

By Jami Heiskanen

Getting into a car accident can be one of the most stressful events in life, no matter how light the damage. Dealing with insurance companies, understanding consumer rights and selecting a body shop for collision repair can be overwhelming. The situation is even harder when insurance companies disguise the truth and even try to get customers to choose their preferred repair shops.

Choice of a Shop in Nevada

Under Nevada law, the owner of the car has the right to select the auto body shop of their choice to carry out any collision repair. The car is the legal possession of the owner, not the insurance company. No company or policy can decide where it will be repaired. Unfortunately, many insurance companies tell customers they must use a list of pre-approved or recommended shops. A consumer who knows their rights is at an advantage and can select a body shop they know and trust.

Responsibility of Costs

No matter which auto body shop is selected, it is important to understand who is responsible for paying the bill. Of course the cost of repairs must be paid to the shop. The owner of the vehicle must pay the total cost of repairs. If the owner has insurance, the insurance provider must then repay the owner for the loss they have suffered. The amount paid to the vehicle owner takes into account the cost of repairs, minus any deductible on the policy and lost value.

What the Insurance Company Must Do

All insurance policies in the state of Nevada must conform to the law. This means every policy is required to restore a vehicle’s appearance, value, safety and function. In Nevada, when a vehicle is hit by someone with insurance, the car owner is entitled to payment for the loss of value. Many shops can help a customer send documentation of diminished value to the insurance company, which is used to award compensation. No matter which shop the owner chooses for collision repair, the insurance provider must restore the vehicle to its previous state.

False Insurance Company Claims

Many insurance companies use false claims to make customers select one of their preferred auto repair shops. One popular claim is that the customer is required to use a body shop from a pre-approved list. This is false and not what the law says. Some insurance providers tell customers they can have the vehicle repaired at a better price elsewhere. There is no financial benefit to the customer if the insurance company uses a cheaper auto body shop. Other insurance companies tell customers they can have the vehicle repaired faster at one of their preferred shops. However, quality work takes time and there is no way for the insurance provider to guarantee the speed of collision repair at their body shop.

It’s important for every consumer to know their rights when they are in an accident and need auto repair. According to Nevada law, only the owner of the vehicle can decide where the car will be repaired. No insurance provider or company can tell a consumer which shop to select. While some insurance companies make false claims to save money, an educated consumer will choose their own trusted shop for collision repair.

There are many things to consider before choosing a body shop to handle your collision repair, painting, detailing, and restoration needs. Before you choose, download your FREE copy of the “12 Essential Questions To Ask Before Choosing A Body Shop” provided by A1 Body Shop.

For other tips, tricks and chat about everything body shop related visit The A1 Body Shop Blog.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jami_Heiskanen
http://EzineArticles.com/?Do-I-Have-the-Right-to-Take-My-Car-to-the-Body-Shop-of-My-Choice?&id=6612340

Here is another article about P-Page logic and how to use the DEG website to get paing for the work you do to a vehicle.

• How To Get Paid For What You Do From Insurance
  

How To Articles

How To Weld On Body Panels – Repair Before Replace

When it comes to body panels that are welded on, there is a common mistake made.  In this article, I am going to explain what the common mistake is, how to avoid it, and how to replace a weld on body panel.   READ MORE

Why Won’t My Window Roll Up – Problems With Car Window Parts

Has this happened to you, car window will not roll up and you’re wondering how to fix it.  You’re in luck, this tutorial will teach you the most common problem, how to determine the problem, and most of all how to fix the problem.    READ MORE

Windshield Removal and Installation

Collision Repair News

Collision Repair Scholarships

Collision Repair News Are you interested in pursuing a career pathway in Auto Collision Repair or currently enrolled in a program? If so, take a minute to learn about different scholarships provided for the industry. Below are a list of scholarships and resources to help pay for your training. READ MORE

Nissan Announces New Certified Collision Repair Program; Open to Dealers and Independent Shops

“There are growing numbers of owners who are enjoying the dependability, comfort, engineering and performance of Nissan vehicles every day,” said Mark Zoba, manager, Collision Parts, Part & Service Sales and Marketing, NNA.  ”These customers expect the highest level of consistent service, Genuine Nissan Parts, outstanding technical expertise and work done correctly in a skillful, efficient and careful manner.  This means they expect prompt, professional, dependable service –which the certification process is designed to promote.” READ MORE

Car Review

Audi A3 Complete Review

The Audi A3 is a model of the beautiful sensibilities in drawing and utilize of equipment that distinguishes the modern Audi A3. It is a mixture of open-road vitality, long-haul sociability, around-town utility and fuel saving. The Audi A3 has a wide variety counting four different petrol engines and three diesels. The A3 takes corners professionally if off course and hold levels and corpse roll is high-quality, with its ride life form nicely managed. The game models by their extra tightened postponement settings can be excessively cruel for various.  READ MORE

New Products

• The Filler Detective – This new tool won 1st for new products at SEMA

Auto Body How-To Videos

• Visit – How To Videos

I am not talking about repair vs. replace, but to repair the damaged panel that is welded on before you remove and replace it.

This may be confusing at first, but it’s really simple when you think about it. If you have never replaced a weld on panel, such as a door skin or quarter panel, you may be quick to remove the door from the vehicle and start taking the glass, handle, and whatever else is needed to remove to replace the door skin. However, this can lead to many problems that can be prevented if you follow this simple step.

Repair Before Replace

I am talking about repairing the damaged door before continuing to the next step. I’ve had students ask, why repair the damage if it’s going to be replaced? Well, the reason you want to repair it first is to realign the door shell. This will allow proper gaps and assure the new skin will fit properly and the door and will align correctly when the door is reinstalled back onto the vehicle you are working on. This sounds simple enough and makes sense, but I have found this to be a common mistake when learning how to replace welded body panels.

When repairing a damaged weldon panel it is not necessary pull the metal until it’s ready for body filler or try to metal finish it, you just need to rough pull the damage to assure the door closes correctly and the gaps look straight. After this step is performed…have at it! Now you can take the door off and continue with your door skin removal and replacement procedures.

If you’re a technician, I’m sure this is a normal procedure for you. However, it you

are a DIY or you have never replaced a weld on panel, I hope you find this tip helpful.

What Problem Could Occur By Making This Mistake?

Let’s say that you removed the door skin and you straighten the shell and flanges

after the skin is removed. It looks good so you start replacing the new door skin.

Look great when you’re done…that is until you put it back on the car to realize

that the shell is a little tweaked and now the new skin is already installed. This

may result in uneven gaps, the door edge in too far at an edge or sticking out too far

making it impossible to align properly. This applies for a door skin, quarter panel, or any other panel that is welded on.

Repair, remove, test fit, and install part for welding. This will assure the car will look like it was never involved in an accident, which is your goal.

Tip: Did you know that you can buy reconditioned welders? Check it out to see what they currently have available. www.CollisionBlast.com/ReconditionedWelders

Tip: When separating panels use a seam buster tool. This tool makes a much cleaner cut without damaging the panel as with an air hammer. www.CollisionBlast.com/SeamBuster

Be a resource and share this tutorial with your friends.

 Determining The Problem

First, of all, there is not one solution to every problem.  If your car window stops working, it could be a number of things.  However, there are a few simple things to look for when determining the problem.

 Is It Electrical or Mechanical?

A quick way to determine if the problem is electrical or mechanical is to push the switch up and down and listen closely.  If you can hear the motor making a noise, the problem is probably a mechanical problem.  If this is the case, chances are it’s the window regulator.  Most power windows use a cable or plastic strap to drive the window up and down.  Over time the cable or strap become weak and breaks into.  Also, as the regulator and the tracks become dirty over time, it requires more force to drive the window up and down.  The drivers side window is the most used window in a car, which results in that regulator to brake first many times.

 What If It’s Electrical

This tutorial is going to focus on replacing the window regulator, but here are a few tips if you cannot hear the motor when the switch is pressed.  If it’s electrical it’s probably going to be a problem with the switch, blown fuse, or the motor itself.  The first and easiest thing to check first is the fuse.  This is easy to change and only takes a minute.  If that is the problem, it will be a quick fix.  However, if that does not do the trick, you may want to have a someone take a look at it so they can trace the problem.  For instance, the problem could be a loose or broken wire.

 Replacing A Window Regulator

Since the window regulator is the most common problem, we are going to focus the rest of this lesson on replacing a window regulator.

Here are the step to follow when replacing a window regulator.  Each make and model are going to be different, but these are some basic steps to take.

1. Remove The Door Panel – To begin, you will need to remove the door panel.  Look for screws holding the door panel on and remove them.  Some of the screws may have inserts or covers that will need to be removed before gaining access to the screw.  Once all screws are removed, use a trim removal tool to reach behind the door panel and pop the clips holding the door panel on.  Do not just pull on the panel to pop the clips, as this will break or damage the clips.  Unplug the power accessories and set the door panel aside.
2. Remove Vapor Barrier – The vapor barrier is a piece of plastic or coated paper that is glued onto the door.  Care must be take not to rip or tearthe vapor barrieras this will need to be reinstalled during the reassembly process.  The vapor barrier help keep wind and moister from entering the passenger compartment.  If you want extra moisture, wind, plus heat insulation and sound deadening, you can use Dynamat instead of replacing the vapor barrier.  This will provide superior moisture, wind, sound, and heat from entering the passenger compartment.
3. Remove Glass – Place a window holder to prevent the glass from slipping, which could cause it to scratch or break.  Once window is secure or someone else is holding it for you, remove the bolts that hold the window to the window regulator.  There is usually 2 to three bolts.  It may be necessary to push the window up or down to position the bolts to a location that you can access them.  Sometimes you will need to use a socket with an extension to access the bolt through a hole in the door.  Once bolts are removed, take the glass out by sliding it through the top.  You may need to angle or twist the glass to remove it.  If the car has a smaller glass or vent glass, it must be removed first.  These windows usually have a few screws holding them in.
4. Remove Window Regulator – Locate the bolts that hold the window regulator in place.  If you have the new regulator, which you should, look at it to see blot locations.  Once the bolts are removed, unplug the motor and remove the regulator.
5. Compare Parts – Compare the new window regulator to the old one to make certain you have the correct part.  If you order the part using your make, model and year, it should be the correct part, but alway check to be certain.
6. Reverse Process – Now simply reverse the process.  Install the regulator, window, vapor barrier, and door panel.  One think that you may have to do when installing the window regulator is to plus the switch in to position the regulator while installing.  With the cable not broken, it’s not going to slide up and down by pushing.  Also, before installing the door panel, be sure to test it to make sure it is working correctly.  If any slight adjustments are make do it at this time.

That’s it!  It is really a simple process once you replace your first one.

 Note: Some vehicles use rivets to hold the window to the regulator and the regulator to the door.  If this is the case, use a center punch to know the center of the rivet out, then use a drill to drill the head of the rivet off.  The use a rivet gun to reinstall the rivets.

OEM window replacement parts can be bought from your local dealership, but may be expensive.  You can also buy aftermarket window parts, which are a lot less expensive.  Below are some resources for you.

 Resources:

www.CollisionBlast.com/WindowHolder

www.CollisionBlast.com/WindowRegulators

www.CollisionBlast.com/TrimRemovalTool 

www.CollisionBlast.com/DynamatDoorKit

Be a resource and share this with a friend!

Thanks to Jake Weyer, editor of Fender Bender magazine, we have live video updates from NACE 2011 in Orlando, Florida.

In this video interview, Jake is interviewing Scott Kruger, executive director at the Collision Repair Education Foundation.  Announced at NACE was a $35,000 makeover grant awarded to Lake Technical College in Eustis, Florida.

Click the video below to watch the live interview.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Again, thanks to Jake for making it possible for all of the students, instructors, and technicians that were not able to make it to NACE this year, to stay updated on the event.

In This Mid-Week News Blast
Back To School Giveaway Winners – How To Video Tutorials – Podcasts – Current Jobs – Mechanical – New Product Updates – Business Tips – Marketing Tips – Cool Video of The Week

Back To School Giveaway Winners

• We have winners for the Collision Blast Back To School Giveaway.  First of all, I would like to thank Motor Guard, Chicago Pneumatic Tools, Sears and 3M for sponsoring the giveaway and providing the tools for the giveaway.  It’s great to know we have companies like this to help support technical education and the future technicians.  Click To Read Who The Winners Are.

Video Tutorials

How To Prep a Panel For Blending Video Tutorial

• In this video tutorial, 3M demonstrates how to prepare a panel for blending.  This is the process of blending new paint into the existing color to produce a color match.   After blending the paint, the entire panel will need to be clear coated.  If the blend is close to an edge, blending and clearing into the adjacent panel may be necessary as well.  Click Here To Watch Video

Corrosion Protection and Texture Coatings Training Tutorial

• In this video training tutorial, 3M demonstrates to prepare a surface for texture coatings, how to apply texture coatings, and how to apply corrosion protection.  Click Here To Watch Video

How To Repair Small Dents Using Glazing Putty

• In this ABRN HOW2 video tutorial, Chandler from Butler Community College demonstrates how to repair small dents using glazing putty.  Click Here To Watch Video Tutorial
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• October ABRN HOW2 Digital Edition

How A Car is E-Coated and Painted At a BMW Manufacture

• The coating techniques are quite different at a car manufacture than the way we do it in a body shop.  The manufacture has robots and vats and other ways to apply corrosion protection and paint.  Here are a few videos how BMW coats their vehicles.  Click Here To Watch Videos

Podcasts

• Dave Dunn Discusses Operating A Profitable Body Shop – This is a podcast, “Auto Success The Podcast.” In this podcast Dave Dunn founder of Masters Educational Services shares some excellent advice of how to operate an efficient and profitable auto body repair business.  Click Here To Listen To Podcast
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•  Hot Rod Magazine Live Podcast with your host,Dennis Pittsenbarger

Current Auto Body Jobs

• Auto Body Jobs

Mechanical

Tire Mounting Without A Machine

• Tire mounting without a machine may be difficult, but it is not impossible.For those times when you need to mount tires on your wheels quickly and efficiently especially when you don’t have immediate access to an auto body shop. For those do-it-yourself mechanics who want to learn how to mount tires like a professional without a tire mounting machine. Review the basics on how you can do it manually by hand even though it may take a little longer. As a side note, it will be much more difficult if you have a low profile tire such as a performance racing tire.  READ MORE

New Product Update

• Mini-Ductor 2 – The Flamless torch.
• Auto Body Parts & Tools Coupons

Management Tips

• Employees That Come In Late

Marketing Tips

• Building A Strong Social Media Presence While Increasing Search Engine Ratings

Cool Video of The Week

Can Your Truck Do This?

Click here to view the embedded video.

Did you like this news blast, share it with your friends.

We have winners for the Collision Blast Back To School Giveaway.  First of all, I would like to thank Motor Guard, Chicago Pneumatic Tools, Sears and 3M for sponsoring the giveaway and for providing the tools for the giveaway.  It’s great to know we have companies like this to help support technical education and the future technicians. 

The 1st place winner is Chris Singer.  Chris is a collision repair student at Aims Community College in Colorado.  Prizes include the new Magna-Spot Stud Welder Gun made by Motor Guard, 255 piece mechanical set by Sears, Accuspray primer gun by 3M, 8″ heavy duty orbital sander by CP Tools, 6″ orbital sander by CP Tools and a Collision Blast book.  Congratulations Chris…put these tools to good use!

Aim’s Community College - Aims Community College will also receive  8″ heavy duty orbital sander by CP Tools, 6″ orbital sander by CP Tools, and Motor Guards newest set of sanding blocks. 

2nd Place Winner is Brandon Streif -  Brandon is a student at Butler Community College in Kansas.  Prizes include: Motor Guards newest set of sanding blocks, 154 piece mechanical set by Sears, and a Collision Blast book.  Congratulations Brandon!

Again, congratulations to all of the winners and another big thanks to the giveaway sponsors.

CollisionBlast.com – Discover where the qr code takes you for a free training tutorial as a thanks for watching my you tube videos.

www.CollisionBlast.com – In this ABRN HOW2 video tutorial, a BCC student is going to demonstrate a method for repairing small hail damage. This method is not a PDR method, but when you plan to paint the surface. This method is very fast and easy. However, this is for small dents, such as hail dents. If the dent is bigger, you will need to pull the dent and use body filler. To learn more auto body and paint DIY how to tips and training, be sure to visit us at http

Back To School Giveaway Winners

The Back To School Giveaway has ended; however, winners are still pending.  We e-mailed the two winners to confirm they were a current collision repair student or instructor, but we have not been able to confirm at this time.  We are in the process of randomly select new winners.  Check back to soon to see if you may be the winner.

New Vo-Tech Student Pricing Announced For RDE Program at 2011 SEMA Show

New in 2011, students of vocational technical schools who are approved to attend SEMA through the SEMA Show Student Program, as well as their chaperones, will be eligible to attend SCRS’ Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series for a significantly discounted rate of $50.00 per student for a full series student pass. The pass allows for the student group to select a presentation in each educational time slot offered by SCRS, including the RDE Headline Presentation by Afterburner, Inc at 5:30pm on Thursday evening. The pricing structure was made possible through coordination between SCRS and the SEMA Education Institute, emphasizing the focus from both organizations on supporting the future of the au- tomotive repair industry.  READ MORE

Butler’s Collision Repair Program

It’s been busy in the collision repair program at Butler.  1st year class showed up to school this semester ready to learn and work.We have studied vehicle construction and now we are studying paint/refinish.  They have already grabbed a spray gun and learning how to paint cars.

The second year has been busy as well. We’ve been studying how to remove and replace weld-on panels and structural repair.

To learn more visit our class blog at CollisionBlast.com/BCRN

Success in Collision Repair is No Accident at WyoTech in Sacramento

I Don’t Know About you, But If I Got Up There I Think I’d Be Stuck….No Backing Up For Me!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Are You Looking For an Auto Body Job?

Visit our job listings with current jobs in the collision repair industry.  Visit CollisionBlast.com/Careers

Bolt Tightening Torque Significance

There are thousands of bolts in your vehicle that hold together critical components in your automobile. These components must be fastened together correctly to ensure that your vehicle can perform as safely and flawlessly as it was designed for. Many mechanics and do it yourself repairmen do not correctly follow torque specifications or, sometimes, completely ignore them altogether. READ MORE 

Vintage Car Interior – Restoration Tips

The best advice you can give anyone who has decided to take on the project of restoring a vintage car themselves is to begin by restoring their interior first. Your vintage car interior is an aspect of the project where you can do all or most of the work yourself and at home.  READ MORE

Why Wax Your Car?

By Ron Haugen

Whenever you own a car, you are likely to take a lot of pride in the way that it looks. It is the reason why you are sure to keep it clean of all trash as well as making sure that you clean the outside and inside often. Of course, there are some who start to consider whether they actually need to wax their vehicle. This is still as important today as it was decades ago. It is important to take a look at exactly why it is important so that you will not be tempted to go without it.  READ MORE

Career in Collision Repair

• What Are You Passionate About

 

Mechanical

• The Importance of Mechanical  Diagnostic in Collision Repair

Tires

• How To Know When To Replace Your Car Tires

 

New Product Updates

New Product Update

• New Product Update From Motor Guard – MOT-JO1050

• New 3M Ceramic Clear Coat Sandpaper 

 

Business Tips

• How To Start An Auto Repair Business

 

Marketing

• Primed on Public Speaking

 

Podcast

•  Hot Rod Magazine Live Podcast with your host,Dennis Pittsenbarger

If you liked this mid-week collision repair news blast, share it with your friends on Facebook and Twitter!

Auto Rust Repair – How To Deal With This Problem

By John Burgess I

If you are a vintage car enthusiast who has made the decision to commit to the purchase of an old car for a do-it-yourself restoration project, the importance of a pre-inspection when evaluating the car or cars your considering cannot be stressed enough. Of the many things you’ll be looking at during your inspection is the need to detect existing rust problems, and this should be at the top of your list. On more than one occasion, a novice has happily bought his first car, and later discovered that the car of his dreams was actually riddled with rust. Minor rust issues can of course be dealt with, but if the problem of rust is of a serious nature, the entire project can easily be jeopardized and could certainly create a potential financial disaster. READ MORE 

Back To School Giveaway Deadline is Saturday

The last day to enter the Back To School Giveaway is this Saturday, September 24, 2011.  All collision repair instructors and students still have a little time to enter.  Motor Guard, CP Tools, Sears, and 3M are providing prizes to the 1st place, 2nd place, and to the school the winner attends.  READ MORE 

DIY Scratch/Touch-Up Repair

• 3M DIY Scratch Repair
• DIY How To Blend Aerosol Touchup Paint

Business Tips

FREE LOSS PREVENTION WEBINAR

In this webcast, “Loss Prevention: Protecting Your Shop,” viewers will learn what they need to have in their loss prevention plans to make sure all of their assets are covered, as well as how they can get employees on board to protect their shop.

To attend the free webinar visit ABRN.com/LossPrevention 

Digital Media

• September 2011 ABRN HOW2 Digital Edition
• September 2011 Tomorrow’s Technician Digital Edition