What do y'all think of this dent roller?

[Tradewind74]

I've seen several posts about homemade dent rollers and the lack of commercial products available for this purpose so I thought I'd share this with you wonderful people.

I came across this laminate roller while at my local Lowe's. It's made by Kobalt and was priced at $19.99. The wheels are a hard rubber.

I am not at a point to start attempting dent removal as all my interior skins are still on so I didn't grab one. I will probably go back, depending on what all you experts have to say.

Thoughts?

[dznf0g]

I think it might be good for flat panels, but for end caps I think it would be too wide to prevent causing "end creases". Not sure how to really say that.....

[A W Warn]

Originally Posted by dznf0g

I think it might be good for flat panels, but for end caps I think it would be too wide to prevent causing "end creases". Not sure how to really say that.....

I agree. I think the laminate roller will leave creases in aluminum.
I think for rolling out a dent in a curved aluminum panel the contour of the roller should be tapered, larger at the center of the roller, not flat.

[AnnArborBob]

Might work for flat panels, but don't expect "miracle results." You will still likely see leftover marks from any creases you roll out. For the curves panels, an English Wheel is often used. Again, you can't expect perfect results from any attempt to salvage a dented panel. But it can be a big improvement from the "before." Get used to your Airstream being an "organic" product with flaws and dings that define it's character and remind you of your past adventures.

[bibbs]

I like what bob said!

[USAtraveler]

Rubber wheels will not roll out dents. Dents are much more difficult to remove than you may think. Try a wooden wallpaper seam roller for small indents in aluminum. If there is a crease in the dent, you will need a hammer and anvil.

[Mr.Fixit]

I took a caster that is convex and about 3 inches across, from a king sized bed, and put it in a 24" bit extension. With a bit of effort and not a lot of time I've rolled out several severe dents to about 95% of new.