Guide to buying a test panel

KMdef9

KMdef9

New member
Joined
Jan 17, 2014
Messages
789
Reaction score
0
I was looking for some guidance on how to buy a test panel. Recently got the new flex and haven't used a rotary before and would like to try some techniques, products and pads out.

I know I should go to the junk yard, or even craigslist, but is there a certain type I should be looking for?

Does it have to be a hood? Do I just want a flat panel with a fair amount of correction to be done?

Maybe a certain panel from a certain car is better to practice on than another? I'm sure I want hard paint when trying to learn.

I want to avoid deep scratches (not looking to repair that right now), CC failure and rust, but anything else?

Can't test on my DD as it's 5* outside right now, looking for something to cure itch to try out the new machine.



Any input is appreciated!
 
I was lucky enough to find a door at the gas station next door to work. And yes, It's stupid cold where we are.

I looked on the metro Detroit Craigslist, but they want decent money for some of these panels. I'll be checking junkyards for some more panels here before long. I've already burned off the clear on that door in some spots.
 
dlc95 said:
I was lucky enough to find a door at the gas station next door to work. And yes, It's stupid cold where we are.

I looked on the metro Detroit Craigslist, but they want decent money for some of these panels. I'll be checking junkyards for some more panels here before long. I've already burned off the clear on that door in some spots.
Click to expand...

If you see anything, let me know. Which junkyard were you going to check out?
 
KMdef9 said:
If you see anything, let me know. Which junkyard were you going to check out?
Click to expand...

My manager knows a guy who runs one in the city. There was also the one up Dixie, in or near Davisburg.

I also might respray my door. Will for sure keep you posted.
 
Why go to a salvage yard and purchase a panel ? All of my test panels have come from body repair shops. Talk to a local shop and explain you are looking for some dark panels that are not repairable. I keep a couple of dark hoods or trunk panels on hand at all times for customer demonstrations and classes.
 
The body shop recomendation is a good one. That is where I got mine for free. It is a hood form a fender bender that has a bent corner. The rest of the panel is a playground.
 
These guys are correct. I'm sure a body shop would give you panels to practice on. Just explain what you are going to do. You may get some work from them.
 
2old2change said:
Why go to a salvage yard and purchase a panel ? All of my test panels have come from body repair shops. Talk to a local shop and explain you are looking for some dark panels that are not repairable. I keep a couple of dark hoods or trunk panels on hand at all times for customer demonstrations and classes.
Click to expand...

Excellent idea! We have one we do business with, right across the street.
 
Great ideas, not my thread but thanks for the help guys:)
 
2old2change said:
Why go to a salvage yard and purchase a panel ? All of my test panels have come from body repair shops. Talk to a local shop and explain you are looking for some dark panels that are not repairable. I keep a couple of dark hoods or trunk panels on hand at all times for customer demonstrations and classes.
Click to expand...

I never thought to ask them. Great idea!
 
Great ideas. Thanks! I may start looking between now and spring; the MB-authorized body shop is about 25 miles across town, but I'm pretty sure I can get a hood from them and borrow my neighbor's F150 to go get it.

Question: how do you guys play on it? Like Smack, taping off sections, instilling defects then correcting them?
 
I have used my panels to test different techniques and products. Taken them to detailing get together ( ask Klasse Act about buffer burn through ). I have given classes to the local Firebird club using tape for 50/50 shots. The possibilities are endless. For those that are so inclined you can even try your hand at touch-up or re-spray after the panel is wasted.
 
SameGuy said:
Great ideas. Thanks! I may start looking between now and spring; the MB-authorized body shop is about 25 miles across town, but I'm pretty sure I can get a hood from them and borrow my neighbor's F150 to go get it.

Question: how do you guys play on it? Like Smack, taping off sections, instilling defects then correcting them?
Click to expand...

I throw everything I can at it. I'll practice on the drums for a couple hours, then grab the pc, or the flex.

On my profile, I put up an album "1000 grit vs pc...."
 
Ask-a-Pro creating-your-own-compact-and-portable-test-fixture..... google this you can make your own test panels
 
215Detailing said:
Ask-a-Pro creating-your-own-compact-and-portable-test-fixture..... google this you can make your own test panels
Click to expand...


This set-up is what Kevin has proposed for using at a buffing event being planned for later this year. They will help provide a level playing field for all involved and be portable and easy to transport and store. The reason I mentioned the body shop panels to the OP was ease of obtaining and zero cost. The cooking sheets work great with the proper paint prep and offer a consistent test bed.
 
2old2change said:
This set-up is what Kevin has proposed for using at a buffing event being planned for later this year. They will help provide a level playing field for all involved and be portable and easy to transport and store. The reason I mentioned the body shop panels to the OP was ease of obtaining and zero cost. The cooking sheets work great with the proper paint prep and offer a consistent test bed.
Click to expand...

Sorry never meant to cross lines,I thought Mike Phillips had this posted here on AGO,I may have seen KEVIN post or maybe even BARRY THEAL using cookie sheets can't recall, but one hell
of an ideal but could not locate in search, this was my plan of attack because scrap panels consume space
 
That is a cool idea. I guess I didn't think about the space because mine was mounted on a wood frame behind my shop. I tested techniques and durability and never considered portables. I wish I had kept it.
 
The space is tight, a hood will not be easy to fit in the basement, fenders, doors and trunks will probably be easier. The cookie sheet idea is really good idea for space, I could ask them how much to spray those while asking for panels. Free is always a good price :)

Know where to get those 12 gauge sheets for cheap?




Side note, we just got alot of snow, body shops will be busy!
 
215Detailing said:
Sorry never meant to cross lines,I thought Mike Phillips had this posted here on AGO,I may have seen KEVIN post or maybe even BARRY THEAL using cookie sheets can't recall, but one hell
of an ideal but could not locate in search, this was my plan of attack because scrap panels consume space
Click to expand...

That was some good info though!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top