OTC Introduces Synthetic Body Tools for Specialized Aluminum Repair

OTC has released a set of synthetic body tools, designed especially for use on aluminum panels. In order to reduce weight and achieve higher fuel economy, many high-volume vehicles are using aluminum in body components. This creates a potential challenge and opportunity for collision repair shops to be prepared with the necessary tools and equipment for aluminum panel removal and replacement. Special hand tools made from synthetic material have great shock absorption qualities, greatly reducing the risk of marring, scratching or gouging panels.

A variety of drill bits, weld breakers, wedges, trim tools, finishing tools and general shaping/bumping tools will address most aluminum repairs. The tools are designed to break spot welds, remove trim pieces and reshape aluminum panels after a damaging event. 

“The proliferation of aluminum on vehicles is great for OEMs to meet government-mandated CAFE standards, but creates an interesting challenge for body shops– namely the tools they use daily,” said Dirk Skogerboe, OTC product manager. “Having a set of specialty hand tools dedicated to aluminum panel repair is a great step toward preventing galvanic corrosion and helps shops increase their ability to service aluminum-paneled vehicles as well as traditional steel.”

More than two dozen vehicle models on the road today contain aluminum panels. Light-duty trucks present a great opportunity for U.S. automotive companies to meet government CAFE standards. Body shops that have prepared their businesses to service vehicles with aluminum-specific tools are in the best position to capitalize on this business opportunity.

“Our synthetic body tools are a great option to consider when looking for tools to dedicate to servicing vehicles with advanced aluminum components. A tech can shape, form, pull dents and fix nearly any aluminum damage, and do so quickly with this line,” added Skogerboe.