Body Work in Ottawa?

Bimmer p.i. · 10-07-2010, 02:52 PM

So my '96 8i won't pass safety because of two fist-sized holes in the rocker panels (!!)

Any recommendations as to who to take it to for a cost-effective patch job?

Just need it to pass safety and get me through the winter, then I'll reconsider how to 'proceed' with the car.

carjoe · 10-07-2010, 03:31 PM

DIY with bondo, fibreglass and some rattle cans of paint?

Bimmer p.i. · 10-07-2010, 04:09 PM

that thought had crossed my mind - so did a piece of tin and a rivet gun - I don't have access to a garage (my apartment only has outdoor parking) so time/space is a consideration.

How does working with 'glass go in the type of cold we're having lately? Does it matter, or will the temp affect the bonding process?

thanks for the help

sb_600 · 10-07-2010, 04:34 PM

try J&R Autobody (i think it's 50 Jamie st), just south of hunt club and merivale. They're a friend's family business and do great work. Make sure to check out their showroom too... you'll be impressed.

bmdoubleya · 10-07-2010, 11:06 PM

The easy way is expanding foam to fill the holes then cover in apoxy or fiberglass for a hard surface.

If you want to pay someone to do it I went to a guy in gatineau that will charge you under $100 bucks.

sb_600 · 10-07-2010, 11:17 PM

i tried the expanding foam thing - the problem with that is it absorbs humidity and moisture, and then will expand or contract. It's good temporarily but won't last. Maybe i just did a crappy job though, but still...

everlast · 10-08-2010, 12:35 AM

You'd want it to last the winter.. some tin, pop rivets and epoxy primer and rust paint would get my vote. Bond the tin to the rockers with some auto bonding agent too.

They're also going to be stronger this way. Rockers are an important part of the strength of the vehicle I believe.

zarbat007 · 10-08-2010, 10:22 AM

I would use body panel adhesive to attach metal parts. These stuff are very strong:

http://semproducts.com/Catalog.asp?prod=87
http://semproducts.com/Catalog.asp?prod=89
http://www.evercoat.com/productDetail.aspx?pID=270

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXrGJ_D4CWg

Bimmer p.i. · 10-08-2010, 02:03 PM

Thanks for all the tips, guys - I'm going to hit CT tonight to stock up and see what will work best - might go with fibreglass for now, or maybe either JB Weld or 3M some sheet steel over the hole, and shot-coat it with some asphalt undercoat.

You've given me a lot to think about, and I appreciate it.