Paint / Filler Thickness Gauges, What Do You Use?

[hep1966]

I’m considering buying a paint/filler gauge or meter. I see many different types from pen-shaped magnet gauges at about $60 on up to electronic meters at about $1000.

What are your experiences with using the various types?

 

[e30bradley]

I used one at autobody school. I don't know what brand it was so this isn't much help. When I buy a car I tap around the car and listen for it to sound.. Correct. For example, I know the drivers quarter panel on my ranger is LOADED with filler just because it sounds like a dull 'thud' when tapped.. It should be a crisp 'tink' sound..

What do you want such a gauge for anyway?

 

[SASORacing]

Tapping is an annoying way to detect, but it works, gives false positives often. I am interested in a answer though, wouldnt want to spend $1k though.

 

[creativecars]

I have used both electronic and magnetic. They are both fun toys, but there are lots of other signs of excessive paint/filler. Are you looking for something specific for industrial applications or trying to see what is hidden.

BTW... Selling a car "In primer ready for paint" means I covered up a bunch of **** and rust with this black stuff and now I want it to be your problem.

 

[K-Dog]

I have one of the old magnetic ones. Completely unreliable.
I would love to have an accurate one though.

 

[oldjamesy]

A magnetic business card has yet to let me down .