Paintless dent removal (PDR) is a type of automotive dent repair method most common for vehicles with minor dents, especially multiple damages obtained from hail. Many customers appreciate the benefits of the PDR process as it’s becoming an even more popular repair method in various service shops.
Most of the time, we spend days (or sometimes even weeks) waiting for conventional repair methods to finish the job. Aside from the time difference, since PDR usually only takes about 48 hours to complete, the traditional way often involves a laborious process that incurs higher service and material costs.
Discover how PDR works with the most common tool cart essentials used for the process.
The PDR Method
Paintless dent removal for cars means removing minor dents using an automated tool or machine. This type of vehicle repair method is most commonly used for damages that do not include paint scratches, like the damages caused by hail.
Hail can leave small to large dents on vehicles if left unprotected. If the dents are professionally assessed to have no severe damages on the car paint, it does not have to undergo the traumatic sanding and filling process to repair the surfaces. PDR offers a solution to long and tedious dent removal with its quick and affordable repair methods on vehicles damaged by hail and other natural elements or accidents.
Paintless dent removal for cars is a method that has been used for decades and has its fair share of supporters and doubters. While it can be a helpful and affordable way to remove minor dents on your car, it is also a risky procedure without proper training. So, be careful in choosing your service provider and ensure that they are trained and qualified to perform PDR on your specific car model.
7 Essential PDR Tools
Each bump or indentation is unique with a different shape or size. As a result, there are many various PDR tools designed for specific scenarios.
Having the right repair tools and using them correctly can make the job faster and easier. It will also increase the chances of a successful repair.
PDR Hammer
Many technicians use hammers to pound the metal back to its original state with little or no effort. It helps even out bumpy surfaces with controllable force. For example, the inertia hammer is one of the many tools you might need to achieve a professional finish.
The reason why it’s preferable to use a hammer over is that it less likely creates more dents on the panel. If you can’t get a surface using the pulling system, you’ll have a hard time pulling the bump without making further problems.
PDR Tap Down
The PDR’s objective is to fix the dented area back to its original shape by pushing or pulling the sheet. For that, you’ll need a tap-down tool.
The PDR hammer is used for hammering down high points with the help of a tap down. PDR tapping tools will allow you to remove or flatten the dents without damaging the paint. While you want to avoid stretching the metal too much, the tapping tools can regulate the pressure and even down the surface successfully.
PDR Dent Lifter
The dent lifter can pull the crooked sheet areas back to the desired level so that the hammering process will be less intensive. It’s often used with adhesives or PDR glue sticks to use the tool for lifting dents effectively.
PDR Glue Sticks
The PDR glue sticks have various colors with different adhesive capacities.
PDR Glue Gun
If you are working in cold temperatures, you will surely need to melt the adhesive sticks to make the material respond better to your methods.
Rods (Whale Tails)
Iron rods, also called whale tails, have long been used in removing car dents. They are not the easiest tools to master and require twisting movements rather than pushing or pulling movements.
When approaching car dents with this type of tool, you need to be precise and work the crease right in the middle; otherwise, you might find yourself creating a bigger, more tenacious dent that just won’t come off.
PDR specialists have their preferences when it comes to rods. As you become more experienced and try new tools, you will find that you have choices for specific shapes or brands.
Window Guard
The side panels are where the most common dents and hollow areas are found. While performing the PDR, you have to place a tool between the panel and the glass to protect it from scratches or breakage.
All you have to do is slide the window guard into the glass passage, lower the glass, to create space to work with your tools and keep them efficient.
OTHER PDR TOOLS KITS
One of the most popular PDR tools out there is the PDR Auto Body Repair Kit. This kit contains everything you need to repair minor dents and dings.
The best PDR technicians can remove bumps using different methods and tools designed to apply specialized dent removal. Here are more of the tools you can find in their kits or tool carts:
- LED Inspection Light
- Aluminum Spray Bottle
- T-Hand Puller
- Lined Dent Board
- Trigger Suction Cup
- Glue Scraper
- Assorted Super Strength Round Black Pull Tabs
- Assorted Black Crease Pull Tabs
Conclusion
The PDR technology has been around for some time and has proven excellent results. The only way a professional can complete this type of repair is with an extensive amount of tools and ensure repair without damaging the paint.
Many consumers have yet to experience its benefits. That’s why professionals would always opt for reliable tools that they are accustomed to using over the “latest is best” concept. However, they are also open to testing new products that might offer better and more efficient solutions.
Are you looking for the best hail repair solutions in Colorado? Hail Free Solutions offers $0 out-of-pocket costs, free valet services, free car rentals, and top-quality paintless dent removal services! Call us here today to schedule a repair.
Add Comment