Course on Using the Hammer and Dolly in Classic Car Bodywork
The Course on Using the Hammer and Dolly in Classic Car Bodywork focuses on learning and practising the fundamental techniques for restoring and repairing vintage bodywork. It centres on mastering the panel beating hammer and the dolly, essential tools for shaping and correcting imperfections in sheet metal. It covers forming techniques, straightening dents, and the creation of curves and panels, with the aim of preserving the authenticity and historical value of the classic vehicle.
The course provides hands-on experience in using these tools, allowing you to develop skills in rust repair and the reconstruction of damaged parts. You will acquire knowledge of welding and of the related hand and power tools, with the goal of restoring the bodywork to its original condition while preserving the integrity and aesthetics of the vehicle. It focuses on applying methodologies to achieve high-quality finishes.
Take the controls.
Run a real engineering trade-off from this field. Move the sliders, watch the model react in real time and beat the challenge.
What you will be able to do
Select hammers and dollies according to the shape and material of the sheet.
Explain the physical behaviour of the sheet under impact.
Apply the technique on the dolly to stretch and smooth the sheet.
Apply the technique off the dolly to raise and level.
Repair dents and form profiles in classic bodywork.
Prevent noise and vibration risks in sheet metal work.
Carry out a forming project using a hammer and dolly.
Who it's for
- Panel beater in classic bodywork who wants to specialise in Using the Hammer and Dolly in Classic Bodywork.
- Bodywork restorer who wants to specialise in Using the Hammer and Dolly in Classic Bodywork.
- Sheet metal forming craftsperson who wants to specialise in Using the Hammer and Dolly in Classic Bodywork.
- Panel repair technician who wants to specialise in Using the Hammer and Dolly in Classic Bodywork.
- Instructor in traditional panel beating who wants to specialise in Using the Hammer and Dolly in Classic Bodywork.
- Hand panel fabricator who wants to specialise in Using the Hammer and Dolly in Classic Bodywork.
- Graduates in engineering or science looking to enter bodywork restoration.
What you'll work with
- Turin Charter (FIVA, 2013)
- EN 10130 (cold-rolled low-carbon steel sheet)
- ISO 5349-1 (hand-arm vibration exposure)
- Real Decreto 1311/2005 (exposure to vibration)
- Real Decreto 286/2006 (exposure to noise)
- Real Decreto 1215/1997 (work equipment)
6 modules · 300 h
1.1Anatomy of a bodywork hammer1.2Flat, crowned and pick faces1.3Shrinking and stretching hammers1.4Universal, horn and comma dollies1.5Choosing the dolly according to the curvature1.6Weight, balance and grip1.7Polishing faces and maintenance1.8Manufacturing and modifying dollies1.9Ergonomics and injury prevention1.10Practice: selecting dollies by profiles
2.1Plastic deformation under impact2.2Striking on the dolly: stretching2.3Striking off the dolly: raising2.4Rebound and hammer control2.5Frequency and force of hammering2.6Effect on sheet thickness2.7Work hardening by hammering2.8Noise and vibration2.9Reading the sound of the sheet2.10Laboratory: measuring thickness after hammering
3.1Planishing surfaces3.2Smoothing weld beads3.3Controlled stretching3.4Wrist and forearm strikes3.5Working on convex curvatures3.6Working on concave curvatures3.7Covering areas without marks3.8Working with the dolly in hard-to-reach areas3.9Common errors3.10Practice: planishing a welded seam
4.1Raising low areas without stretching4.2Lowering high areas with indirect blows4.3Sequencing on large dents4.4Combined use with spoons4.5Stress relief4.6Creases and damaged edges4.7Reading with a file and by hand4.8Correcting over-stretching4.9Combining with shrinking4.10Workshop: dent in a low-crowned panel
5.1Door repairs5.2Wings and sills5.3Roof panels5.4Edges and hemming5.5Character lines5.6Aluminium panels with a wooden mallet5.7Wheel arch repairs5.8Finishing before paint5.9Comparison with modern methods5.10Case study: door of a classic saloon
6.1Panel selection6.2Damage diagnosis6.3Choice of tools6.4Hammering plan6.5Carrying out the repair6.6Reading and correction6.7Final finish6.8Photographic record6.9Report and presentation6.10Final review with the tutor
How you'll learn
100 % online training on the SEIUM campus, with downloadable material, recorded classes and an assigned technical tutor. There are no fixed timetables: students progress at their own pace within the intake, which makes it possible to combine the course with work.
Each module combines theory, guided reading of the original standard and applied exercises. The working software is Fusion 360, Rhinoceros, advanced Excel, in free, academic or evaluation versions. Tests are studied using real workshop procedures for forming with hammer and dolly, correcting dents in panels, and checking with profile templates. Assessment is continuous, module by module, plus the final integrative project.
Build it end to end
Your final project follows the real engineering workflow, step by step, reviewed by your tutor.
Select hammers and dollies according to the shape and material of the sheet.
Explain the physical behaviour of the sheet under impact.
Apply the technique on the dolly to stretch and smooth the sheet.
Apply the technique off the dolly to raise and level.
Repair dents and form profiles in classic bodywork.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- No prior degree is required.
- Internet connection and a computer capable of running the programme's software.
- Sufficient command of Spanish to follow technical standards documentation.
Ready to start?
Send your application today. Our admissions team replies within 72 hours with your study plan and funding options.
Frequently asked questions
The programme comprises 300 hours in total, spread over 3 to 5 months. That is between 10 and 15 hours per week on average, compatible with a full-time job.
You will work with Fusion 360, Rhinoceros and advanced Excel. Free, academic or evaluation versions are used, and the tutor indicates the free alternative where one exists.
A SEIUM diploma of your own upon passing the continuous assessment and the integrative project. This is in-house training, not an official qualification from the Ministry.
Yes. Modules passed in a course or postgraduate diploma in the same area are credited towards the higher programme. Check the credit transfer policy when you enrol.
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