Editing Bondo

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"Bondo" is a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genericized_trademark genericized trademark] used to refer to plastic body fillers. Plastic body fillers are polyester resins that are mixed with hardeners into a putty. When they set, they become hard, and can be sanded, primed, and painted.

==Bondo and health==
Bondo was developed as a replacement for lead used as body filler. It's less toxic, although it still poses health risks. Gloves, mask, and adequate ventilation are recommended. For MSDS details on specific Bondo products, [http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/MSDS/Search/?gsaAction=msdsSRA&msdsLocale=en_US search the MSDS database at 3M.com].

==Types of plastic body filler==
*[http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/3MAutomotive/Aftermarket/Products/Product-Catalog/?PC_7_RJH9U5230GE3E02LECFTDQCEK3_nid=02PKX0XCK6beFDKXQL309Jgl 3M body fillers and auto body repair products]
*[http://www.evercoat.com/products.aspx Evercoat]

=="Waterproof" body fillers==
Be aware of "generous" marketing claims regarding waterproof body fillers. They are most likely "water-resistant", rather than actually "water-proof". Some people may choose to apply epoxy primer, then body filler, then epoxy primer over the filler.

If using a waterproof paint, a waterproof body filler may be unnecessary anyway.

==Body filler tips==
*For body lines and peaks on hoods or doors, use a contour gauge to make a custom plastic filler spreader:
#Place the contour gauge on an undamaged area to get the contour.
#Trace the contour onto a plastic body filler spreader.
#Trim out the shape on the spreader.
*Cut filler spreaders to the desired size.
*To clean body filler spreaders, use 1/4 of a 3M scuff pad with lacquer thinner on it. A metal quart can with a lid makes a safe way to store the scuff pad along with some lacquer thinner.  
*For reproducing small parts such as gaskets, use plastic body filler to make a mold:
#If the part doesn't already exist, a replica has to be made in its shape (for example, carve it out of soft plastic).
#Apply some wax to the part (this will act as a mold release), and lay it down on a piece of wax paper.
#Mix up some body filler, and place it in a small cup or bowl (the cap on a plastic jug may work).
#While the filler is still wet, place it over the part.
#When the filler hardens, it can be removed and used as a mold.
*When applying body filler upside down, apply the filler to a sheet of thin plastic (such as the side of a milk jug) and press it into place. When the filler hardens, peel the plastic away.
*Use an aluminum ruler to find high and low spots such as doors, hood to fender, trunk lid to fender, etc.
*If using filler with hatonite you can sand filler while still tacky. This will shred the filler smooth easily with hardly any pressure. When finished, follow up with a polyester glaze or add filler thinner to your final coat of filler.


==DIY body filler recipes==
''needs confirmation''
*Epoxy resin and glass bubbles.

==References==
*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bondo_(putty)
*http://www.hotrodders.com/forum/bondo-163104.html

[[Category:Body and exterior]]