Service
Automotive Bodywork & Panel Replacement in Maple Ridge, BC
Body repair, panel replacement and preparation for classic and specialty vehicles, done to the standard the paint stage depends on.
What this work involves
Bodywork is the stage where a panel is made straight, true and consistent before anything is refinished. Paint does not hide a wavy panel. It highlights it, especially in a dark or high gloss finish, which is why this stage takes the time it takes.
Work includes dent and crease repair, correcting damaged panels, addressing previous repairs that were filled rather than fixed, aligning panels and gaps, and preparing surfaces so they are ready to accept primer and colour.
There is a point where repairing a panel stops making sense. The metal may be too far gone, the damage too extensive, or the repair required would leave a panel that is more repair than original. In those cases we fit factory, new old stock, quality reproduction or good used replacement panels, or a partial section where that retains more of the original metal. Very few replacement panels line up correctly on their own, so fitting and gap work is part of the job rather than an afterthought.
On older vehicles, bodywork frequently uncovers history. Previous filler, hidden rust and older repair techniques all turn up regularly. When they do, we talk to you about what has been found before continuing.
How the work is carried out
- 01InspectionPanels are checked for damage, previous repairs, filler and hidden rust so the real scope is understood before work begins.
- 02Repair or replaceMetal is worked back toward its original shape where that is the right answer, and panel options are reviewed for fit and quality where replacement makes more sense.
- 03Fitting and alignmentReplacement panels or sections are trial fitted, welded or fastened as appropriate, and panel fit, gaps and edges are adjusted so the body reads correctly as a whole.
- 04Blocking and preparationSurfaces are blocked, sealed and prepared so the panel is straight and ready for the refinishing stage.
When you might need it
- Dents, dings, creases or damaged panels on a classic or specialty vehicle.
- Panels or doors that no longer line up or close the way they should.
- Previous repair work that has failed, cracked, shrunk or been done poorly.
- Rust or damage beyond practical repair in a quarter, fender, door skin, floor or rocker.
- A previously replaced panel that was fitted poorly and never lined up.
- Preparation work ahead of a full or partial repaint.
Vehicles we take on
Classic cars, collector vehicles, restored vehicles, hot rods, restomods, specialty vehicles and older trucks.
Start a conversation
Ask about automotive bodywork & panel replacement
Send details of your vehicle and photographs of the areas involved, and we will get back to you.