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Best way to cut body panel?

Discussion in '2.5 Gen Tundras (2014-2021)' started by back_cast, Feb 7, 2022.

  1. Feb 7, 2022 at 8:43 PM
    #1
    back_cast

    back_cast [OP] New Member

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    I have a high clearance rear bumper that I plan on installing. It requires cutting the rear panels slightly above the mud flaps. Kinda scary, but whatever.

    What’s the best tool to use to make the cut? Also probably wise to put masking tape down on the surface where i’m cutting huh?

    And finally, does anyone have a recommendation for an edge trim to put over the freshly cut panel?
     
    TucsonTundra1794 likes this.
  2. Feb 7, 2022 at 8:53 PM
    #2
    Cruzer

    Cruzer Wheeling Full Size

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    Jigsaw cuts like butter and is smoother than a cutting wheel. Masking tape for sure.
     
    HulkSmurf14, Sunnier and 831Tun like this.
  3. Feb 7, 2022 at 9:13 PM
    #3
    2mchfun

    2mchfun Yeah it'll pull it, just don't expect to stop!

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    As for the edge, I wonder if you could cut it a bit "long" then fold and crimp the edge? Maybe try way low since it is waste material anyway. Basically a sample piece or pieces(both sides) to play with before doing the real deal. Just a thought.
     
  4. Feb 7, 2022 at 11:28 PM
    #4
    panicman

    panicman Everyone remain calm.

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    You should really get a hand held cutoff saw, preferably pneumatic, but they make electric.

    Yes, I’d tape the cut line to prevent top finish damage.

    I would not try to crimp, or fold the edge after cutting. The sheet metal will bend, but the finish probably won’t. I would file and sand the unfinished cut edge to get it smooth and non-lethal, with the tape still in place. Then coat the sanded, unfinished edge with nearly any dark gray, direct to metal primer, and then finish it with clear chip guard, and that will look similar to what we have on our rocker panels. Your new bumper will fit against it, and it will be protected from all the water and road grime you’ll throw at it.
     
    Sunnier likes this.
  5. Feb 7, 2022 at 11:34 PM
    #5
    831Tun

    831Tun heartless Bastrd

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  6. Feb 8, 2022 at 5:35 AM
    #6
    back_cast

    back_cast [OP] New Member

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    Thanks, lots of good info here. Here's what the cut should look like from WarFab.

     
    FrenchToasty, Mrf1987 and panicman like this.
  7. Feb 8, 2022 at 5:43 AM
    #7
    Jbehredt

    Jbehredt Burgeoning member

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    Body saw is the tool for the job. Essentially a small, inline jig saw designed for exactly this.
     
    panicman likes this.
  8. Feb 8, 2022 at 3:08 PM
    #8
    Mrf1987

    Mrf1987 New Member

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    Hey man did you purchase a Warfab phantom for your tundra?
     
  9. Feb 8, 2022 at 3:09 PM
    #9
    back_cast

    back_cast [OP] New Member

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    Word
     
    HulkSmurf14 and Mrf1987[QUOTED] like this.
  10. Feb 8, 2022 at 3:13 PM
    #10
    Mrf1987

    Mrf1987 New Member

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    Pm. sent
     

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