M100 Trailer Side Panels

Kingfish · Post by **Kingfish** » Wed Nov 01, 2006 8:31 pm

I have a M100 trailer that has decent side and end panels, but I plan on replacing the floor. The side panels have slight bulges and a few dents. Are there any tips on how to straighten them out where once the paint is on they don't show? I'm a decent welder, but bodywork is relatively new to me. I don't want to use a lot of filler on this project.

OKCM38CDN · Post by **OKCM38CDN** » Wed Nov 01, 2006 9:15 pm

I also have a M100 with the same few dents...

What I did for the worst ones was use a brass flat punch and hammer to drive them flat... Not a lot of force, just enough to push the dent back in...

For the bulges, not sure what you mean there, but you might try a shot hammer and a dolly.

Hope this helps...

Post by **wesk** » Thu Nov 02, 2006 9:08 am

Just keep in mind that any hammering will cause the metal to thin at the impact point which actually increases the area of the metal at that point. This results in stretched areas that will have a tendency to oil can or pop in and out. Keep your hammer and dolley contact areas as small as possible. Try to use cold shrinking techniques where possible. This is where you should get a book on body work and read it BEFORE you start or consult an experience body man.

Kingfish · Post by **Kingfish** » Thu Nov 02, 2006 7:16 pm

Thanks to both of you. The description of the oil can popping in/out describes the sides pretty well. They have this popping in/out problem as well as small dents within. I'll see what a body guy can do (and if I can afford it).