HOW TO: Replicate a Honda Seam Sealer Bead

Ryan Marrinan, 3M Application Engineer, shows some tips and tricks for how to replicate the seam sealer bead on a Honda CRV. Hondas have a little taller profile than what’s considered standard, and we’re going to show you how to replicate that.


Step 1: Prep your panel (00:29)

Prep your panel, scuff the surface and tape off the bead to the exact width that you want.

Step 2: Prep your seam sealer (00:48)

We’re using our 3M™ EZ Sand Multi Surface Repair Material 05887 for this. Start by equalizing the tip of the cartridge in an upright position into a paper towel, making sure you’ve got equal parts A and B started out of the cartridge. Apply the static mixing tip and dispense two to three inches of material onto a mixing board to make sure you’ve got a thorough mix coming through the tip.

Step 3: Lay the first bead (01:24)

When applying to the vehicle, start from one end and work your way around. It’s important to work the first layer into the hem flange to create a tight seal on the surface. Typically for this bead you’ll start from one end of the door and lay it all the way around. This applies also to hoods and deck lids. Once it’s laid out, come in with a spreader and knock it down just enough to make sure it goes all the way from tape to tape.

Step 4: Lay the second bead (02:19)

The material has now had a second to sit, which is why this is in two steps. Initially the material will have an instant flow, then a slower flow. You want that instant flow to set out and get to the slow flow. Now you’ll apply a layer of material to get that taller arcing bead. Create it right down the middle of the taped-off area. If you’re working on a large panel like a hood, you can start from one end and go right to the other end, then come in with the spreader. If it’s a smaller panel like a deck lid, give it a second or two to get a little bit of flow and melt into that lower material, then knock it down.

Step 5: Remove the tape (03:19)

It’s important to pull the tape off back against itself, creating a nice clean cut edge. If anything, you want to be inward just a little bit, not outward, so you don’t create a wave that’s difficult to get paint underneath. Focus on pulling it back against itself as you work your way around the door.

Step 6: Pinch off the corners (03:50)

Depending on the vehicle maker’s recommendation, pinch off the corners so you have clearance for gaskets and, more importantly, are allowing water to drain out naturally from the corners. This helps prevent corrosion issues and delamination of the paint.

A word from our lawyers:

There are many factors that can affect an individual repair, so the technician and repair facility need to evaluate each specific application and repair process and determine what’s appropriate. 3M recommends referring to relevant vehicle repair and OEM guidelines prior to starting all repairs. 

Products used in this video:

3M™ EZ Sand Multi Surface Repair Material 05887


3M™ Dynatron™ Yellow Spreader



For more advanced tutorials, check out 3M Collision Repair Academy



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Website: 3MCollision.com
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