Hand Tools for Body Repair
Professional hand tools for automotive body repair and refinishing. Our selection includes body hammers, dollies, dent pullers, panel beaters, and specialty hand tools designed specifically for automotive body work and collision repair.
Essential Body Shop Hand Tools
A well-equipped body shop requires a variety of specialized hand tools for different repair techniques. Here are the essential hand tools for automotive body repair:
Hammers & Dollies
- Body hammers (pick, finishing, shrinking)
- Dollies (general purpose, heel, toe)
- Spoon dollies for curved surfaces
- Shrinking hammers for metal work
- Bumping hammers for panel shaping
Dent Removal Tools
- Slide hammers and attachments
- Suction cup dent pullers
- Glue pulling systems
- Paintless dent repair tools
- Dent pulling tabs and bridges
Specialty Tools
- Panel crimping pliers
- Seam buster chisels
- Panel separators
- Trim removal tools
- Clip pliers for fastener removal
Metal Working Techniques
Proper use of hand tools is essential for quality metal work. These techniques require practice and skill:
- Hammer-off-dolly: Hammer strikes the metal while the dolly supports from behind, but not directly under the hammer
- Hammer-on-dolly: Hammer strikes directly over the dolly to flatten metal between the tools
- Shrinking: Using specialized hammers to compress stretched metal back to its original shape
- Planishing: Light hammer taps over a dolly to smooth metal surfaces
- Pick hammering: Using the pointed end of a hammer for precision work in tight areas
Tool Quality & Maintenance
Professional-grade hand tools are an investment that will last for years with proper care:
- Material Quality: Look for high-carbon steel tools with proper heat treatment
- Handle Comfort: Ergonomic handles reduce fatigue during extended use
- Surface Finish: Polished working surfaces prevent marking the workpiece
- Cleaning: Keep tools clean and free of debris and metal particles
- Storage: Store in a dry environment to prevent rust and corrosion
- Maintenance: Occasionally polish working surfaces to maintain smooth finish
Tool Sets vs. Individual Tools
Tool Sets
- Comprehensive selection of related tools
- Cost-effective compared to buying individually
- Matched tools designed to work together
- Often include storage case or roll
- Good starting point for new technicians
Individual Tools
- Select exactly what you need
- Choose specific brands for each tool
- Upgrade tools gradually over time
- Replace worn tools individually
- Build a custom collection for your specific work