Aluminum repair help!!

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PostPosted: Tue Sep 27, 2016 7:39 pm
Hello, I have a 2015 Ford f-150...came in with a dent more of a deep crease I am having problems getting the aluminum flat. I got most of it out but there is a high spot the size of a baseball big high spot, I try to hammer it but it it's oilcanning on me, I'm using a torch to fix it. How can I get it flat please help! Thanks in advance



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PostPosted: Fri Nov 11, 2016 7:40 am
Fun with the new Ford aluminum body panels. Would like to hear what you learn from this experience.



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PostPosted: Fri Nov 11, 2016 9:48 am
Aluminum
Sounds like metal is stretched. Its impossible to say anything without pictures.

There is Cast Aluminum and Forged Aluminum both have Different Hardness's depending on Heat treatment.
Most Sheet Aluminum used in Aircraft or Car body parts is Forged Sheet Aluminum used in Stamping Forms whether it be an Aircraft part such as a Wing rib or some other specialized Stamped part Before they Stamp it in a Form its usually T1 or T2 Hardness which is very soft you can bend it easily in your fingers the stamping Helps work harden it but after stamping its usually put in a special oven and Baked to harden it. usually to level of T3 or T4 or T5, just depends on what it is for and what its final use will be.
T6 is usually forged stuff such as cylinder heads.

Now what ever piece you started with Was Probably T3 or T4 in Hardness then it was work hardened by Damage Then it was further work hardened by Working it to remove damage stretching it and Now you've hit it with a Torch in an attempt to shrink it. :shocked:

You should use your Torch To Anneal the Aluminum First!

Check out this Aluminum Dent repair by David Kirkam I seriously doubt your dent is as bad as the one in this video in this video David repairs a Quarter panel on a hand built Aluminum Cobra when done you cant even tell it was damaged.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9moYO-WWhaQ

This is a Good one too, There are many more on you tube most are Pitching adds for new fangled Tools and such they would like the Public believe they need for Aluminum repair.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrn1Kq5Togg
Dennis B.
A&P Mechanic, FCC General radio Telephone Operator
Line Maintenance A&P Mechanic and MOC Tech specialist.

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