https://honda-tech.com/zerothread?id=248181
I've got a small but bad patch of rust I'd like to try to fix myself. It goes all the way through the sheetmetal (rear quarter panel). Do I just cut out the bad metal and Bondo best I can? Can someone point me towards some good bodywork resources?
(Cross post for any members that repair their own body damage and wouldn't otherwise visit the appearance forum)
Thanks.

 

Check out your local library for auto body books.
I was surprised at the quality of references I found when I was looking into doing my own paint.
Another option is to take an autobody class at your local community college.
NOVA has them here, dont know about your neck of the woods.

Evan

 

Cut out the bad metal. Use a rust converting liquid (local hardware store will have that). this converts the rust into an innert material that will not eat the metal.

Now you have a couple choices. Fiberglass patch. Or, bend up some thin sheet metal to fill the hole. Attach (weld, rivet, sheet metal screws) this to the surrounding metal. Grind whatever method of attachment used so its as smooth as possible.

Now bondo to bring it all to the same height. I'm not an expert: I read this in a book I bought on doing paint. As noted, the library should have the books you need.

Good luck!

The Captain


[Modified by thecaptain, 5:04 PM 8/7/2002]

 

Ah, okay, thanks a lot everyone.

 

Oh, one more question if I may. I'm not going to be able to have someone weld this for quite some time, so in the meantime what can I do to help slow the process? I was thinking of knocking/cutting out the rust (would make about a 2" diameter hole in the rear quarter panel), treating the remaining steel with some rust cleaner/inhibitor, and then just using some Bondo and wire mesh until I can get it done professionally. Is this a good idea?
Thanks a lot.

 

If you're just looking for a patch job, I'd cut out the rust (and a little beyond to make sure you got it all) and rivet on a stainless steel sheet metal patch (on the inside). Depending on how much you care about looks, you could even it out with a filler (I hate Bondo, of you can try and find another.) and paint it.