Are you dealing with the frustrating issue of “bacon fenders”?
Maybe you had a friend try to roll your fenders and quarter panels, or maybe you had a local shop do the job but ended up with wavy, uneven metal.
Whatever the case may be, you’re now left with unsightly fenders that are driving your OCD crazy.
But fear not, there are solutions to fix this problem.
In this article, we’ll explore some options for fixing bacon fenders and getting your car looking smooth and sleek once again.
So buckle up and let’s dive in!
How To Fix Bacon Fenders?
The first step in fixing bacon fenders is to assess the damage. Is it just a few small waves or is the metal pushed out awkwardly in random places?
If the damage is minor, you may be able to fix it yourself with some paintless dent repair techniques. This involves using a slide hammer to gently pull the metal back into place.
However, if the damage is more severe, you may need to take your car to a professional body shop for repairs. They will have the tools and expertise necessary to fix the bacon fenders and get your car looking like new again.
Another option is to use a fender finisher tool, which can help smooth out any waves or bumps in the metal. This tool is designed specifically for fixing fender issues and can be a great option if the damage is not too severe.
It’s important to note that fixing bacon fenders can be a time-consuming and expensive process, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully before deciding on a course of action.
Understanding What Causes Bacon Fenders
Bacon fenders are a common issue that can occur when fenders are rolled improperly. This happens when the dirt and road grime built up inside the 90-degree angle lip is not cleaned off before rolling. If this debris is not removed, it gets pinched between the lip and the fender, creating an uneven and wavy look commonly referred to as “bacon fenders.”
Another cause of bacon fenders is when the fender roller is not used correctly. It’s essential to be mindful of the head angle of the roller to ensure that you are either rolling or pulling the fender. Rolling and pulling are two different things, and if not done correctly, they can cause damage to the fender.
It’s also crucial to note that bacon fenders cannot be rolled out once they occur because the debris is trapped inside the rolled-over lip. The only fix for bacon fenders is to hit them with bondo and paint or do some professional metal fabrication, followed by paint.
Assessing The Damage: How Bad Is It?
After an auto accident, it’s important to assess the damage to your vehicle, including the fenders. Even if the damage appears minor, it’s important to have a qualified technician assess the full extent of the damage.
If your fender was damaged in an accident, it’s possible that there could be more damage than what you see on the surface. For example, there could be damage to the frame or suspension that can affect the overall safety and performance of your vehicle.
When assessing the damage to your fender, look for any waves or bumps in the metal. If the metal is pushed out awkwardly in random places, this indicates more severe damage that may require professional repairs.
It’s also important to check for any rust or corrosion around the damaged area. If rust is present, it can weaken the metal and make it more prone to future damage.
DIY Solutions For Fixing Bacon Fenders
If you’re looking for a DIY solution to fix your bacon fenders, there are a few things you can try.
One option is to use a fender roller tool to reroll the fenders and make them look good. However, be careful not to bend the metal around too much as it may degrade the paint and make the metal become flimsy.
Another option is to stretch and flare the metal, but keep in mind that this can be an expensive fix. Additionally, you can’t push the metal back into shape once it’s been dented or waved.
If you’re feeling brave, you can try shrinking the metal using a hammer and dolly. However, this requires a lot of skill and practice, and it’s important to note that it will likely ruin the paint on your car.
Finally, some old-timers use heat to reshrink metal, but this technique also requires a lot of practice and skill. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s best to leave this kind of work to the professionals.
Professional Options For Fixing Bacon Fenders
If you decide to take your car to a professional body shop, there are a few different options they may offer for fixing bacon fenders.
One option is traditional bodywork, which involves using hammers and other tools to reshape the metal and remove any dents or waves. This process can be time-consuming and expensive, but it can also be very effective for more severe damage.
Another option is paintless dent repair, which is a less invasive technique that involves using specialized tools to gently massage the metal back into place. This technique can be very effective for minor damage and can often be completed in a shorter amount of time than traditional bodywork.
If your fender has significant damage or if the metal is pushed out awkwardly in random places, a fender finisher tool may be the best option. This tool is designed specifically for fixing fender issues and can help smooth out any waves or bumps in the metal. Professional body shops may have this tool available and can use it to restore your fender to its original shape.
In any case, it’s important to choose a reputable and experienced body shop to ensure that your bacon fenders are fixed properly and safely. Be sure to ask for references or read reviews before making your decision.
Preventing Bacon Fenders In The Future
To prevent bacon fenders in the future, it’s important to take a few precautions when rolling your fenders. First, make sure to thoroughly clean the inside of the fender before rolling it. Dirt and debris can get trapped between the lip and the fender, causing an uneven and bumpy surface. Use a rag and brake cleaner to ensure that the surface is clean and smooth before rolling.
It’s also important to be mindful of the angle of the roller when rolling your fenders. Rolling and pulling are two different techniques, so make sure you are using the correct one for your specific needs. Rushing through the process can also lead to mistakes, so take your time and be patient.
If you’re not confident in your ability to roll your fenders correctly, it may be best to leave it to a professional. This can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Lastly, consider investing in quality tools and equipment for rolling your fenders. Cheap or low-quality tools can lead to mistakes and damage to your car. Make sure you’re using the right tools for the job and that they are in good condition before starting any work on your car.
By taking these precautions, you can help prevent bacon fenders in the future and keep your car looking sleek and smooth.
