Side skirts are an important part of your vehicle's exterior, as they protect its lower body from dirt, debris and other potential damage. Unfortunately, side skirts can become cracked and damaged over time, leaving your vehicle vulnerable to further damage. If your side skirts are cracked and need repair, the following guide will help you fix them.
Tools Needed for the Job
Before you start your repair job, you'll need to gather the right tools. To repair cracked side skirts, you'll need the following items:
- Sandpaper
- Masking tape
- Filler material
- Primer
- Paint
- Clear coat
- Clean rags
- Rubber gloves
Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Cracked Side Skirts
Now that you have the tools you need, you can begin the repair process. Follow these steps to repair your cracked side skirts:
- Clean the area around the crack with a clean rag. Make sure the area is free of dirt, debris and any other contaminants.
- Sand down the area around the crack with sandpaper. Be sure to use a fine grit sandpaper to avoid damaging the area further.
- Apply a layer of masking tape to the area around the crack. This will help keep the filler material in place while it dries.
- Using a putty knife, apply a generous amount of filler material to the crack. Make sure to fill the crack completely, and then smooth it down with the putty knife. Allow the filler material to dry for at least 24 hours.
- Once the filler material is dry, sand it down with a fine grit sandpaper. Be sure to sand the filler material until it is level with the rest of the side skirt.
- Apply primer to the area around the crack. This will help the paint adhere to the side skirt.
- Using a paintbrush, apply a layer of paint to the area around the crack. Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours.
- Once the paint has dried, apply a layer of clear coat to the area. This will help protect the paint from further damage.
- Allow the clear coat to dry for at least 24 hours before using the vehicle.
Tips for Repairing Cracked Side Skirts
Repairing cracked side skirts can be a tricky process, even for experienced mechanics. To make sure you get the best results possible, here are some helpful tips:
- Be sure to use a fine grit sandpaper when sanding down the area around the crack. If you use a coarse grit sandpaper, you could end up damaging the side skirt further.
- Make sure the filler material is completely dry before sanding it down. If it is not completely dry, it will not sand down evenly.
- Be sure to apply several thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat. This will help ensure an even coverage and reduce the risk of runs and drips.
- Be sure to use a high-quality primer and paint. This will help ensure a long-lasting repair.
- If you have any questions or concerns, ask a professional mechanic for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools do I need to repair cracked side skirts?
To repair cracked side skirts, you'll need sandpaper, masking tape, filler material, primer, paint, clear coat, clean rags and rubber gloves.
How long does it take to repair cracked side skirts?
The repair process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the severity of the crack. Make sure to allow enough time for the filler material, paint and clear coat to dry before using the vehicle.
Can I repair cracked side skirts myself?
Yes, you can repair cracked side skirts yourself with the right tools and supplies. However, if you have any questions or concerns, it is always best to ask a professional mechanic for help.
What type of primer should I use?
It is best to use a high-quality primer when repairing cracked side skirts. This will help ensure a long-lasting repair.
What type of sandpaper should I use?
When sanding down the area around the crack, it is best to use a fine grit sandpaper. Coarse grit sandpaper could damage the side skirt further.
Can I use a brush to apply paint?
Yes, you can use a brush to apply paint. However, it is best to use several thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat.
Do I need to use a clear coat?
Yes, it is important to use a clear coat after you have applied the paint. This will help protect the paint from further damage.
How long do I need to wait before using the vehicle?
You should wait at least 24 hours after applying the clear coat before using the vehicle.
What should I do if I have any questions or concerns?
If you have any questions or concerns while repairing your cracked side skirts, it is always best to ask a professional mechanic for help.