bc.gold 3,403 #1 Posted June 13, 2020 (edited) My Dodge Ram needs the rocker panels replaced for he upcoming inspection, options are pop rivet, glue or weld the new panels in place. Pop rivets are available in aluminum or stainless steel these would not react with electrolysis whereas aluminum would. So the stainless would be the better choice. I'm not fond of pop rivets and would much prefer welding the panels in place, but after watching a youtube vid on 3M Panel Bond this seems to be the latest method used by body shops. Welding panels in place has become a thing of the past and I must say I'm sold on the 3M product. Edited June 13, 2020 by bcgold 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Achto 27,505 #2 Posted June 13, 2020 (edited) Panel bonding adhesive has been around for some time now. It was getting very popular when I got out of the body work gig in 1998. It is very strong but any shear points or vertical lap joints should still be welded. Example - If you use it to put a box side on a truck or a rear quarter on a car, everything can be glued except for the vertical joints at the rear of the vehical. The glue option is very good on pinch weld areas that were originally spot welded together. Not only is it a good bond but it prevents moisture from getting in between the panels. Edited June 13, 2020 by Achto 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
WHNJ701 4,165 #3 Posted June 13, 2020 I know alot of people that restore cars and trucks who use epoxy metal adhesive, welding body panels is the way of the past unless it's requested. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tom2p 2,394 #4 Posted June 13, 2020 10 hours ago, jabelman said: I know alot of people that restore cars and trucks who use epoxy metal adhesive, welding body panels is the way of the past unless it's requested. this ^ Share this post Link to post Share on other sites