HOW-TO, ON GLUE

USING GLUE PULL REPAIR TO GET THE DENTS OUT

By Sarah Perkins

With the ever-increasing advancement of technological change within the automotive industry, and the growing advancement of parts and features within vehicles, sometimes, it’s just better to get back to basics. At least, this is what the growing trend of glue pull repair suggests.

While not a brand new technique—having been initially developed in the United States in 1999 and commercialized in the early 2000s— increased awareness of the possibilities for dent repair that does not compromise advanced vehicle panel systems has brought glue pull repair into the spotlight.

Glue pull repair is not paintless dent repair, however, it does offer many similar applications. According to Yves Robichaud, the Regional Director for Quebec at CARSTAR Canada, “dent removal using glue saves time by reducing the surface preparation stage.”

Fix Network’s Regional Vice President for Quebec, Yves Roy further reflects these sentiments stating that glue pull repair is “a very interesting approach because it preserves the integrity of the parts and allows for faster execution.”

The process itself involves a series of simple steps. A panel needing repair is first cleaned with a 95 percent alcohol solution before activating the glue gun to the correct temperature needed for the specific repair. Next, a flashlight blast is used to remove dust and moisture before applying the glue. Here, reusable blocks are positioned where the dent is located (and this is much like using welded wrenches without having to remove the part or bare the surface). When the glue has dried, the process becomes a simple matter of pulling with the same type of bar used with welded keys. Once the dent is released, the glue can then be dissolved with the same alcohol solution used for the initial cleaning.

Referred to by supporters of the process as the “least invasive collision repair technique,” glue pull repair offers many potential advantages over traditional systems.

Since a vehicle’s original siding is left untouched throughout the entire process, the use of glue pull repair can make it easier for auto body technicians overall to detect and correct other dents in panels and siding.

Similarly, because the paint and finish are preserved, and since the paint is only slightly heated during cleaning, glue pull repair can help to protect a vehicle’s anti-rust coating and e-coating applied by the vehicle’s manufacturer. While studs and wires are traditionally welded on to correct dents and often pull or rip holes into aluminum leaving additional work for auto body technicians, using glue pull repair on steel and aluminum can allow for no extra metal work areas or holes.

This change is in comparison to the early development of the process in which the adhesives and tabs used were often too weak and broke during repairs.

Another potential advantage of glue pull repair is the reduced use of body fillers and paint since the process can be done without creating additional fixes.

With the increasing technification of vehicles as the automotive industry races to reach electrification, glue pull repair also offers potential EV benefits and room for future growth. Vehicle panels now contain more wiring, electronics and insulation on the back, and sensors and e-coatings on the front than ever before. Through the use of glue pull repair, the delicate electronic systems found in electric vehicles can be preserved and technicians could be saved from having to open up parts of the vehicle that could otherwise interfere with computer or high-voltage systems.

While there is still a ways to go in terms of testing and technique, for supporters, the current most obvious opportunity for glue pull repair is small, shallow dents on forgiving panel materials. This includes potential work on roof panels, doors, interior dashboards, hoods, deck lid flanges, among other applications.

As with anything, it will take time, practice and patience before the full potential of glue pull repair is seen. However, with the use of adhesives expanding overall in the automotive industry as vehicle weights decrease and electric vehicles demand more diversified parts, the use of glue pull repair seems to be one that’s going to stick around, at least for the near future.

"Cars in a Professional Collision Repair Workshop with Technicians Expertly Restoring Vehicles to Pre-Collision Glory"

Unraveling the Essentials: A Comprehensive Guide to Efficient Collision Repair Solutions

In the aftermath of a traffic accident, navigating the maze of collision repair can be a daunting ordeal. Yet, the key to swiftly restoring the harmony between life and the road lies in understanding the essentials of efficient collision repair solutions. This comprehensive guide is designed to unravel these essentials, ensuring that your vehicle receives the care it needs to return to its pre-collision glory.

**1. Initial Assessment and Estimation**

The first step in the collision repair process involves a thorough assessment and estimation. Professionals will examine your vehicle to determine the extent of the damage. Utilizing latest technologies, such as 3D scanning and computerized estimating systems, repair shops can provide accurate and detailed estimates, ensuring transparency and fairness in the repair process. Prioritizing shops that offer free, no-obligation estimates can also be a beneficial practice.

**2. Choosing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts vs. Aftermarket Parts**

A crucial decision in the repair process is the choice between OEM parts and aftermarket parts. OEM parts are produced by the vehicle’s manufacturer and guarantee a perfect fit and optimal performance, maintaining your vehicle’s value and integrity. Meanwhile, aftermarket parts, often less expensive, might not always match the exact specifications of your vehicle, potentially affecting performance and safety. For high-quality repairs, OEM parts are generally recommended, though in some cases, aftermarket parts can serve as a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on safety.

**3. Technological Expertise and Certification**

The complexity of modern vehicles, with their advanced safety systems and computerized components, requires a high level of technological expertise. Choosing a repair shop with certified technicians, who are trained in the latest repair techniques and technologies, is essential. Certifications from organizations like I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) signal a technician’s skills and knowledge in collision repair, offering reassurance that your vehicle is in capable hands.

**4. Paint Matching and Finishing Techniques**

The final appearance of your vehicle, upon completion of repairs, is predominantly determined by the quality of paint matching and finishing techniques. Advanced color matching technology ensures a seamless blend between the repaired areas and the original paintwork, preserving the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. A high-quality repair shop will use environmentally friendly, water-based paints, and computerized paint mixing systems to achieve an impeccable finish.

**5. Understanding the Warranty**

Before committing to a repair shop, understanding the warranty offered on the repair work is critical. A reputable shop will stand behind its work with a comprehensive warranty that covers both parts and labor. Ensure you are clear about the warranty’s duration and what it entails. A solid warranty is a testament to the confidence a repair shop has in its workmanship and the quality of the parts used.

**6. Communication and Customer Service**

Excellent communication and customer service are the hallmarks of a reputable collision repair shop. The repair process should be transparent, with regular updates on the progress of your vehicle’s repairs. Professional shops will handle the coordination with insurance companies, alleviating one more concern from your list. Selecting a repair facility that values customer service ensures a more manageable and stress-free repair experience.

In conclusion, efficient collision repair solutions hinge on making informed decisions at each step of the process. From the initial assessment to the final touches, understanding the essentials delineated in this guide empowers you as a vehicle owner, ensuring that your collision repair journey culminates in a seamless and satisfactory outcome. Remember, quality repairs are an investment in your vehicle’s future, safeguarding its performance, safety, and resale value.

April 8, 2024 No Comments

AN ELECTRIFYING EXPANSION

AN ELECTRIFYING EXPANSION PREPARING FOR AN ECO-FRIENDLY FUTURE THIS YEAR, I-CAR AND THE CANADIAN WELDING BUREAU (CWB) HAVE JOINED FORCES TO FURTHER EXPAND WELDING TRAINING

December 15, 2023 No Comments