Equipment for Vehicle Body Repairers

It is used to sand filler, primer and old surfaces before painting, leaving an even finish with no sharp marks. The disc or pad is fixed to the backing pad and the grit is chosen according to the job: coarser to rough down filler, fine for finishing before the primer. For more aggressive work on metal and wood, flap discs are used instead.

The figure to look at is the air flow in litres per minute, which must suit the spray gun and the other air tools you use with it. The tank affects run time and the number of pauses. For occasional use a small compressor is enough, while for continuous work a professional model with a larger tank is better. Always compare the data shown on the model's product sheet.

For sanding and filling you need an FFP-class dust mask complying with EN 149. For spray painting a dust mask is not enough: you need filters for organic vapours, marked with the letter A. Replace the filter when breathing becomes difficult or when you smell solvent. Always follow the safety instructions given on the paint's data sheet.

The heat gun nozzle should be chosen according to the gun model stated in the title, because the diameter and shape of the outlet vary from one model to another. The complete airbrush nozzle includes the body and the outlet that control the atomisation of the paint. Before buying, check the gun's model code and the type of connection, so you avoid compatibility errors.

The tape is chosen according to the area to be protected: the rolls available are 10 or 20 cm wide. For narrow bands and parts that need precise masking the narrower width is better, for large surfaces the wider one. The dispenser with blade lets you cut the tape cleanly and quickly, without tearing it by hand and without waste.

The kit contains resin, hardener and glass wool, available in 0.2 and 0.75 litre packs: the choice depends on the size of the job. The resin is mixed with the hardener in the dose indicated by the manufacturer, applied to the glass wool and left to harden before sanding. Work in a ventilated area, with gloves and safety glasses, observing the times given on the pack.

Filter regulators are available with a 3/8 connection, in a plain version or with a lubricator. The regulator sets the outlet pressure, which directly affects the atomisation of the paint. For painting, a filter without a lubricator is recommended, because oil can contaminate the paint, unless the gun manufacturer says otherwise. Also check the maximum pressure allowed by your system.

The arms are the replacement electrodes with which the spot welder joins two overlapping sheets of metal, a frequent job in the repair of car bodies. There are standard and digital versions, as stated in the title: the choice depends on the welder model you use, because the connections must match. Before buying, check compatibility with your machine's model code and keep the tips clean and aligned.