Replace a Damaged Car Body Through Junkyard Replacements
Getting body work done on a car can be expensive. However, you can save a lot of money by visiting a junkyard and looking for parts there.
Contents
Steps
- Determine what part(s) you need, and make a list of them. This is helpful, especially if you have numerous parts to replace.
- Examine the existing damaged parts on your car to determined how they need to be removed. Some components (such as doors and hoods), only need to be unbolted. Others, such as quarter panels, may need to be chiseled or cut off. Write down measurements for the part you need (dimensions of the part, the size of the bolts that hold it on, etc.).
- Determine the compatibility of your particular car year and model with other years and models. Many car companies use they same body components for more than one year. For instance, if your car is a '96, a door from a '98 of the same model may fit or vice versa. Also, remember that some car makes are cross compatible (such as Chevrolet and GM). Determining this will require special research depending on your vehicle.
- Gather the necessary tools (socket set, chisels, screwdrivers, torches, etc.) Some junkyards ban the use of power tools/torches in their facility, so check with them ahead of time.
- When you arrive at the junkyard, look for your make and model or a compatible make and model. Some junkyards organize the cars by make/model, others do not. Either way, you are going to have to do a little searching.
- When you find a compatible junk vehicle, examine the part(s) you want to remove. Check for rust damage, dents, etc. on the used part. Many junkyards will not give you a refund for used parts, so make sure it will work for you before you purchase it.
- Remove the part(s). The great part about self-service junkyards is that you get to remove the part yourself, which is great practice for when you reinstall it on your personal vehicle.
- When you get the part(s) home, reinstall them (by means of bolting, welding, etc.). Some body items, like doors and hoods, may require adjustment to get them to align perfectly with the rest of your car.
Tips
- Bring a friend with you to the junkyard. It makes it a lot easier to remove/transport heavy parts if you have an extra set of hands.
- Check the weather. It is no fun to go to the junkyard in the rain.
- Use a parts catalog to determine the compatibility of your car with that of other years/models. Usually, parts catalogs will show what year(s) certain parts are compatible for.
- Use junkyard etiquette. It is first come, first served. If someone is getting parts from a car you want to use, ask them if it is okay for you to take parts off of it before you start removing them.
Warnings
- A junkyard can be a dangerous place. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and exercise safety when using tools.
