Clock Method

With the clock method, the lines of force running through the center of the dent are removed, with the result that the material stress is reduced and the panel is flat again.

The dent should be envisaged as a dial with "12" being the furthest away. In other words, the person performing the work is standing at 6 o'clock.

Start at the edge of the dent -A-  at 9 o'clock and work clockwise through 12 o'clock to 3 o'clock. When doing this, always remember to press the panel at as many points as possible and as close together as possible. From 3 o'clock, move further inwards and carry on through 12 o'clock to 9 o'clock. Carry out the remaining steps in this same way.

Fig 1: Identifying Clock Method For Repairing Dent

Courtesy of PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.

With a dent of approx. 2 cm in diameter, it will be necessary to press the panel at around 100 - 150 points. Any point that is pressed too hard must be pushed back again before continuing. Strain can be created in the panel as the result of too many high points, with the result that the metal sheet can no longer spread out evenly.