2. If you do not have these tools, you can use sandpaper.
3. Once the paint has been removed, it can be assessed how rusted the metal is and, based on this, decide whether the entire panel should be replaced (if possible) or repair the damaged area.
4. New body panels aren't as expensive as many people think, and it's often faster and more efficient to install a new panel than to try to repair large corroded areas.
5. Remove all elements from the damaged area, except for those that can serve as a template for restoring the original shape of the panel (e.g. headlights).
6. Then, using sheet metal shears or a hacksaw blade, remove the rusted and corroded metal.
7. Bend the edges of the hole inward to create a small indentation for the primer.
8. Scrub the affected area with a wire brush to remove rust dust from the rest of the metal.
9. Paint the affected area with anti-corrosion paint, if you have access to the back of the rusted area, treat that as well.
10. Before applying the primer, it is necessary to somehow close the hole. This can be done with aluminum or plastic mesh or with aluminum tape.
11. In order to close a large hole, it is best to use aluminum or plastic mesh or fiberglass.
12. Cut out a piece of mesh that is roughly the shape and size of the hole, then lay the mesh over the hole so that its edges are below the rest of the plane.
13. The mesh can be glued with a few drops of primer applied around the perimeter.
14. Aluminum tape should be used for small or very narrow openings.
15. Unwind the tape, cut a piece of the desired length and shape, then remove the protective coating (if it's taped) and seal the hole you can stick another layer of tape if the thickness of one layer is not enough.
16. Press down on the edges of the tape with the handle of a screwdriver or similar tool so that it is snug against the metal.