Body filler - long term options?

[Jantrix]

I have been using a real nice filler 3M Acryl-Blue glazing putty. Unfortunately I just threw away about 1lb of a 1lb, 5oz tube that I paid $35 for. I don't use a lot so it dried up after about 5 years. I don't do a lot of body work. I don't care for it.

So I don't like the red Bond-o stuff and the Squadron stuff is rubbish. So what are my options for long term shelf life. Two part filler? Any brand name recommendations?

[Harry P.]

I like Bondo "Professional" glazing putty. It's a 2-part putty, but it comes in a smallish tube... so you're more likely to use it up before it goes bad. It's about $7-8.

[tabsscale1]

I to used to use the blue or green filler but was throwing about the same amount away. I did go to a body supply store and found some i like that the person in the store said was just as good as the 3m stuff. It was like $8 and the tube was about 1/3 the size as the 3m stuff.

[Casey]

If by "long term" you mean the putty will remain stable and not strink over time, use a two-part body filler such as Evercoat's EuroSoft (or similar. It's been a while since I bought it, so the name may have changed).

Single part glazing putties dry via evaporation of the solvent, and though they dry quickly, they solvents are usually "hot" and the possibility of shrinkage is something I'd rather avoid...hence the two-part filler (which hardens via a catalytic reaction, not evaporation) sugggestion.

[Jantrix]

Good info, thanks very much.

[1320wayne]

Rob, obviously if you've had this for five years and only used a third of the tube then most likely the suggestions for using a brand that comes in smaller increments is the way to go. I use Evercoat products (Rage and Eurosoft to be exact) that come in quart cans and a seperate tube of hardener. I try to take every precaution to extend the life of the product. Such as, I use paint can clips from the paint dept. at Lowe's along with storing each can inside a round Tupperware style container for extra protection. I have a can of Eurosoft that I bought back in 05' and what is still left in the can is good.

[route66modeler]

HI, I have a can of the eurosoft stuff. It went bad. I know the new stuff costs arround $35.00. Way too much for it to go bad so quick. Not really made for the hobbist. Steve

[route66modeler]

Hi, Harry, so the 2 part bondo stuff is good? They sell it at autozone. Let us know. Thanks,Steve

[Chuck Most]

The two-part Bondo stuff is about all I use, it has never once let me down.

[Mooneyzs]

I personally use the same stuff as Harry posted as well as some Evercoat 2 part filler. I won't use anything other than a two part filler anymore. I don't care of glazing putty of any kind as it steams to shrink as well it takes some time to cure. the 2 part fillers you can be off and sanding in 15 mins or so. Even sooner if you happen to mix it a little hot by accident . Here is a pic of the Evercoat Filler:

[Harry P.]

Hi, Harry, so the 2 part bondo stuff is good? They sell it at autozone. Let us know. Thanks,Steve

It works well, it's cheap, it's available at any auto parts store. It's a can't-miss. Just have to watch out... they sell a one-part glazing putty that comes in a tube that looks almost exactly the same. You want the "Professional" version; that's the two-part stuff.