adviceguide advice that makes a difference

check that you have the correct tools and materials to carry out your intended repair. apart from the usual spanners, screwdrivers and sockets, hexagon and `torx' (star) drive fasteners are now in common use. if possible wash the repair area with a good detergent or a washing soda solution to remove any traces of wax or silicone polishes/trim dressings. silicone products in particular will have serious effects at most stages of the repair, some immediately obvious such as masking tape not sticking and silicone spotting in paintwork, others long term such as poor adhesion of fillers, primer and paint....