When replacing a spot-welded panel, whether repairing accident damage on a modern car or fitting new bodywork to a classic or kit car, the spot-weld has to be removed cleanly and quickly, leaving the panel underneath undisturbed.

Because of the spot-welding process, the metal around the spot-weld has become hardened, so it can be difficult to drill with an ordinary drill bit, plus this will damage the panel underneath. These three new sets from Laser Tools offer two different types of spot-weld remover and offer a complete solution for a variety of panel materials and spot-weld sizes.

The spot-weld cutter set (part number 7048) includes both types of spot-weld remover, the arbour-based spot-weld cutter, with a spring-loaded guide pin, and an 8mm spot-weld drill, both designed for use with either electric or air-powered drills.

The spot-weld cutter uses double-ended 9.5mm cutter heads, which are quickly interchangeable. Six cutter heads are included. A shallow pilot hole is drilled in the centre of the spot-weld; the spring-loaded guide pin then sits in this pilot hole and the cutter then very quickly and accurately removes material around the spot-weld. Stop cutting when the top panel ‘pops’ away from the panel underneath.

The special 8mm spot-weld drill is manufactured from HSS cobalt (5 per cent) steel for long life and is suitable for more specialist materials including galvanised high-stress steels and alloys where excess heat may be generated. The drill features a special ground self-centring point and ‘mills’ through spot welds to produce burr-free holes, the flat profile protecting the panel underneath.

The spot-weld cutter set (part number 7049) features the arbour-based spot-weld cutter and contains ten spare cutter heads. The spot-weld drill set (part number 7050) features four titanium-coated HSS cobalt (5 per cent) steel spot-weld drills: 6.5mm x 45 long, 8mm x 45mm long, 10mm x 45mm long and 8mm x 79mm.

All three sets are supplied in sturdy, metal storage cases, and are available now from your Laser Tools stockist.

The 7048 spot-weld cutter set is typically priced at £40.22; the 7049 set is £45.72 and the 7050 spot-weld drill set is £27.43 (all prices include VAT). Remember to check for the best prices and special offers.

More details from www.lasertools.co.uk ENDS.