PSA: I had to pick between a heat gun and a torch for a stubborn quarter panel dent

It was a 2008 Civic with a deep crease right by the wheel arch. I started with the heat gun, but after 15 minutes the metal just wasn't moving enough. I switched to a small propane torch, moving it in quick circles about 6 inches away, and the metal relaxed so I could work it out with my hammer and dolly. The key was keeping the torch moving to avoid any color change in the paint. Has anyone else found a better way to handle those tough, springy dents without risking the finish?

2 comments

2 Comments

rayy831mo ago

My old body shop teacher always said to never put a torch near factory paint if you can help it. That heat shock can cause the clear coat to fail months later, even if you don't see a color change right away. For a crease like that on a Civic, I've had better luck using a dry ice method to shrink the metal back cold, or just drilling a small hole for a slide hammer if it's really locked in. The torch trick works in the moment, but it's a big gamble on the long term finish.

dakotab131mo ago

Explain the dry ice method in more detail. I've heard of it but never seen it done right on a panel with factory paint still on. Does it risk cracking the clear coat from getting too cold instead of too hot?