Filling security bar holes..a quick tutorial

descrentl

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Im sure alot of you have used this method before, but for those who havent, here is a quick easy way to fill security bar holes using minimal filler. Im doing this on a TRON. Pic may look weird because the machine is on its side letting the Citri Strip work its magic. Anyways, I started out with this:
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I went to Home Depot and picked up a dowel rod. These are really cheap and come in various sizes.
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As you can see, this one fit perfect. You want it to fit as snug as possible.
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Take your dowel rod and cut a few pieces of. Length will vary depending on how thick your cab is. I went a little over an inch. It really doesnt matter.
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Next, gently hammer the rods in, sinking them just below the surface, and then finish with your filler of choice. Cheap and easy, and works great.
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And there you have it.
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Interesting way to do it...I've always just slapped a piece of duct tape (inside the cab) to cover the hole and then fill it with wood filler. Wait for it to dry, then sand down/paint.
 
Nice work - I've used the dowel method quite a few times with great success.

It's worthy to note that if you can't get a dowel the same size, get the next size up and drill the hole bigger.
 
They actually sell tapered wood plugs at the hardware store that work even better for this. No cutting required, just select the size you need and tap it in.
 
Bondo also works wonders. Just be sure to smooth it nearly flush while it's still curing, otherwise it will take a lot of sanding later and be apt create a dimple around the patch.
 
thanks! I'm actually going to have to use this method very soon...never would have thought to use a dowel
 
Bondo also works wonders. Just be sure to smooth it nearly flush while it's still curing, otherwise it will take a lot of sanding later and be apt create a dimple around the patch.

I use bondo after the dowel. Just a dab and sand it flush. Cant even tell the holes were there.
 
Everyone knows you can't sell truly restored games for $1000+ if you fill the lock bar holes. Painted carriage bolts are where the real money is at.
 
Interesting way to do it...I've always just slapped a piece of duct tape (inside the cab) to cover the hole and then fill it with wood filler. Wait for it to dry, then sand down/paint.

+1 but I use masking tape

Descrentl's way is the true "restore" though
 
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Bondo also works wonders. Just be sure to smooth it nearly flush while it's still curing, otherwise it will take a lot of sanding later and be apt create a dimple around the patch.


A trick with bondo or any polyester based filler is to trim it with a razor while its in the "green" stage of curing. This is when its a rubber like consistency. Doing this will save you alot of time sanding.
 
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