Body panel repair - workshop visit

February saw 20 members visit a local body and paint shop to gain insight into techniques and processes deployed to repair body panels and use modern paint formulations to get a vehicle back to its pristine best. The “little surprise” exhibit laid on for our visit - a local D-type replica - was icing on the cake. The visit to Kirkton Motor Body Repairs allowed members to gain a better understanding of the workings of a county repair shop who take an immense pride in their work. We viewed body panels being primed, colour coated and given their first coat of shiny lacquer in the spray booth. There was the latest welding machine that can cater for steel or aluminium panel repairs and even brazing, simply by changing the nozzle the operator picks up. The intelligent machine can “read” the panel being welded and adjust the settings automatically. There was also a pulling jig that can be precisely located around the workshop to aid with panel and sill straitening. This tool uses a suction pad to anchor itself to the floor and the anchor is so strong, it could even pull a vehicle sideways across the workshop if the dent was proving stubborn to come out. Everyone enjoyed the visit immensely and then retired to the pub for supper. Check out our web pages for upcoming outings and events, including our Spring Break at the end of April.