69/70 Dented Grille - HELP
 

Hey guys, need your help. Yes, I've done a search on the topic and read all the posts that are out there.

Instead of paying $1000 for a new grille I decided that the free one from my buddy with a dent in it was a much better deal. (duh)

I've read the posts and DIY articles on fixing dents but I'm scared to death to make that first blow with the mallet and dolly. I've kind of hit on it a little but d@mn, that aluminum feels very brittle.

To those of you that have done this before, is this something I (with NO body experience) should attempt? Would a body shop be able to help me out?

Yes, I realize pictures would be great for this question, but I guess I'm just asking if this is something that shouldn't be a big deal, or is this something that will eventually cost me $1000 if a screw it up? And just how easy is it to screw up?

Thanks

Re: 69/70 Dented Grille - HELP
 

maybe posting a picture of the dent? would help in the advise needed

hit aluminium sftly a little bit at a time to slowly approach the finished shape// i like using a wooden puece rough shaped to near the contour of what you're lookin for

Re: 69/70 Dented Grille - HELP
 

like cdowns said

Re: 69/70 Dented Grille - HELP
 

Don't us a mallet and dolly! Use a small tack hammer and, like cdowns said, a wooden dolly, one small/light hit at a time. You may have to remove grill supoorts to get at you dent.

Re: 69/70 Dented Grille - HELP
 

If your going to use a "buck" (piece of wood cut to shape) be sure to make it wider than the dent, be sure to use a shot bag under your work, it will allow you to slowly shape it without over doing it. its not that hard, just go slow and easy. you can use a torch with a sooty flame to gently warm the metal also, but since this is your first attempt, i wouldn't advise it. Coop

Re: 69/70 Dented Grille - HELP
 

if you decide to get a GM nos I just purchased one from GM parts direct (flow chevrolet) for a tad under $600 to the door. Dont know how many are left but some are out there.