Procedures for evaluating damage locally

Introduction to objective evaluation

In addition to a wide knowledge base on surface finish technology, many years of experience, a sharp eye for color as well as testing aids, equipment and a precisely defined procedure for evaluating damage locally are absolutely necessary for evaluation of the vehicle finish.

Procedure for evaluating damage locally.

Important:

Follow the 6-point procedure below for evaluating all finishes:

1. The vehicle surface must be clean.

2. Note vehicle data.

3. Specify all dents, other damage or items which are not standard features.

4. Measure layer thickness.

5. Perform microscopic tests.

6. Make photographs of damaged spots.

Notes on describing damage:
Use the terminology given in the chapter "Specialized terminology, paintwork". Use our paint drawing sheets as a form for entering the designation and description.

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It is practical to go beyond a description of the damage alone to include its behavior during the evaluation or processing.

Measurement of the layer thickness is always necessary.

Usually a photograph is helpful.

In many cases clarification is possible without damaging the paint finish; however, local damage may be necessary, i.e. by sanding or laboratory test of paint scratched off or a vehicle part.

For later tests:
Save paint removed - paint chips, paint scratched off or residues in bags (polyethylene). Ensure that the paint does not stick to adhesive tape, etc. because the effects of the glue make reliable analysis of the cause impossible.

When evaluating it is most practical to use a systematic procedure starting from the nominal state. We have put together equipment and aids to support your local evaluation; these are contained in a practical, plastic "diagnosis case". In addition to ordering the complete set it is also possible to order individual items.

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Proper evaluation of the damage to standard or repair paintwork is a prerequisite for successful cooperation with our customers. Moreover, it facilitates writing up the order for the workshop and accelerates handling of the warranty if applicable.

In warranty cases please observe the Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual

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When evaluating the damage patterns proceed according to the following table. All test results evaluated must be entered in the paintwork sketch sheet!

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Damage patterns and test measures

P = Passenger cars

41 = Damage category 41, corrosion

44 = Damage category 44, corrosion on crimps and overlaps

55 = Damage category 55, corrosion rusted through/material replacement

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1 = For poor adhesion attach strip of cellophane adhesive tape for adhesion test to rear of paintwork sketch sheet for each section tested

2 = Store in plastic bag

The measuring points for measuring the coating thickness are shown in the following drawing.

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P98.00-2082-09

A Measuring points for measuring coating thickness