TheSamba.com :: View topic

Tue Sep 08, 2015 9:27 am

I've never done any body repair before, so this may be a total noob question:

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to fix this dented in sliding door (ideally, without repainting)?

It looks like it was pushed in above and below a support frame inside the door. If I remove the sliding door interior panel, would I be able to push it out from the inside? Harbor Freight has a deal on a body/fender hammer and dolly set, would they be a way to go for this (with cardboard or something on the inside of the dollies to lessen scratching), or is there an easier / cheaper way to fix this?

Structurally, it doesn't appear to be hampering anything, so if it's a big repair I'll leave it for later. I wasn't planning on attacking on the lesser indentation that dent that continues in the rear panel, and the rear fender flare may be a separate project...

Tue Sep 08, 2015 9:35 am

I own a Wurth paintless dent removal system.
Your door would be very challenging.
It could be popped out in spots but lines would be off and at a minimum a skim coat of filler before primer and paint.
IMHO, getting another door will be the quickest and most cost effective.
Get all the other little booboos fixed up and repaint the entire van, or just the door and local repair spots, whichever you feel works for you.

I see ads for doors in the classifieds.
Place a (WTB) ad for your color and model...see what comes to you. :wink:

Tue Sep 08, 2015 12:11 pm

find a paintless dent removal guy and have them look at it - they can usually be found in dealer lots working on "new" cars - maybe call a dealer

be sure they can fix it before paying

a couple of small dents is about $70 around here - expect to pay more

and start looking for a good full-service body shop too