Bodywork Tools

About Bodywork Tools

Bodywork tools are specialist equipment designed for vehicle body repair, panel beating, and automotive restoration work. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of professional-grade bodywork tools including slide hammers, dent removal kits, body repair frames, panel separating tools, and specialist dollies and anvils. Whether you're carrying out minor paintless dent repairs or major structural bodywork restoration, having the right tools is essential for achieving professional results.

Our bodywork tools collection features premium brands including Sealey, Draper, and Facom, offering everything from hydraulic body repair kits and push rams to precision PDR equipment and corrosion assessment tools. From small mobile repair businesses to established body shops, MyToolShed provides the specialist equipment needed for both modern aluminium panel work and traditional steel body repairs.

Applications

• Panel Beaters and Body Shop Technicians: Professional vehicle body repair and restoration work
• Mobile Dent Repair Services: Paintless dent removal (PDR) for hail damage and minor dents
• Classic Car Restorers: Precision shaping and forming of replacement body panels
• Automotive Workshops: Collision repair and structural bodywork corrections
• Insurance Repair Centres: Efficient accident damage assessment and repair
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home restoration projects and minor body repairs
• Agricultural and Commercial Vehicle Repair: Heavy-duty panel work on larger vehicles

Choosing The Right Bodywork Tools

When selecting bodywork tools, consider the type and scale of work you'll be undertaking. For paintless dent removal, invest in quality PDR kits with LED line boards for proper shadow detection and a variety of rods and tips for different panel access points. If you're working on structural repairs, hydraulic body repair kits with appropriate tonnage ratings (typically 4-10 tonne) provide the controlled force needed for frame straightening.

Panel separating and levering tools should feature protective coatings to prevent damage to painted surfaces, whilst slide hammers require secure attachment methods – either magnetic, suction, or screw-in adapters depending on your specific applications. For professional body shops, comprehensive tool sets offer better value, whereas mobile technicians may prefer compact, portable equipment. Consider the materials you'll be working with, as modern aluminium panels often require different techniques and tools compared to traditional steel bodywork.

Safety Information

Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety glasses when using slide hammers or hydraulic equipment, as sudden releases can cause components to move unexpectedly. Ensure hydraulic body repair equipment is positioned on stable, level ground with adequate load capacity, and never exceed the manufacturer's stated tonnage ratings. When working beneath vehicles during body repairs, use proper axle stands and never rely solely on hydraulic jacks. Check all tools for damage before use, particularly welded joints on body repair frames and hydraulic hoses for signs of wear or leakage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between paintless dent removal and traditional panel beating?

Paintless dent removal (PDR) uses specialist tools to massage minor dents from behind the panel without disturbing the original paintwork, ideal for hail damage and small dings. Traditional panel beating involves reshaping metal using hammers, dollies, and sometimes filler, typically required for larger dents or creased panels where paint damage has occurred.

What tonnage hydraulic body repair kit do I need?

For most passenger vehicle bodywork, a 4-10 tonne hydraulic body repair kit provides sufficient force. Light panel work and minor corrections suit 4 tonne systems, whilst 10 tonne kits handle heavier structural repairs and commercial vehicle work. Always assess the specific repair requirements before selecting equipment.

Can I use bodywork tools on aluminium panels?

Yes, but aluminium requires different techniques and often specialist tools. Aluminium has different work-hardening properties than steel and is less forgiving. Use appropriate PDR tools with proper tips, avoid excessive heat, and consider tools specifically designed for aluminium bodywork to prevent panel damage.