Car body filler is an essential part of any car restoration project. It is used to fill in small imperfections in the body of a car, such as scratches, dents, and rust spots. The filler is usually a two-part epoxy, and it is applied in a thick layer over the imperfection and then sanded down to match the surface of the car. In order for the filler to work correctly, it must be thinned.
Thinning car body filler is essential for a successful car restoration project. The most common method of thinning car body filler is to mix it with a solvent like lacquer thinner or acetone. The amount of thinning agent that is required will depend on the type of filler that you are using and how thick the layer is. Generally, a ratio of 4 parts filler to 1 part solvent is a good starting point.
In order to mix the filler and solvent together, you will need a mixing cup, a stirring stick, and rubber gloves. Place the filler into the mixing cup and slowly add the solvent while stirring. Continue stirring until the mixture is evenly combined and the desired consistency is reached. If the mixture is too thick, add more solvent and stir until it is thinned out.
Once the filler has been thinned, it is ready to be applied to the car. Using a putty knife or a small trowel, apply the filler in a thin layer over the imperfection. Work the filler into the area with the knife or trowel to ensure that it is evenly distributed. Allow the filler to dry completely before sanding it down.
Sanding the filler is an important step in the car restoration process. Use a medium-grit sandpaper to gently sand the area until the filler is completely flush with the rest of the car’s surface. If necessary, use a finer-grit sandpaper to smooth the area further. Once the filler is sanded down, you can apply a primer and paint to the area.
Thinning car body filler is an essential part of any car restoration project. The process is simple and straightforward, but it can be time-consuming. The most important thing to remember is to always use the correct ratio of filler to solvent when mixing in order to achieve the desired consistency. By taking your time and following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your car restoration project is successful.
Thanks for the instructions. What, if any, hardener should I use after thinning? (I’m working on a ’36 Hudson Terraplane 2-door sedan and need to smooth the fenders and a couple small, shallow dents in the roof side).