What is the purpose of a slide hammer?

• A. To grind surfaces
• B. To remove rust
• C. To pull out dents
• D. To measure thickness

Answer: (C)

The slide hammer is used to pull out dents in metal panels. It works by sliding a heavy weight along a shaft and then releasing it to strike a pulling attachment (like a dent puller tab or a stud). That impact transfers a pulling force to the damaged area, gradually drawing the metal back toward its original shape. This method is focused on reshaping the panel by pulling, not grinding surfaces, removing rust, or measuring thickness. In practice, you attach a pulling tab or weld a stud to the dent, then use the slide hammer to apply controlled pull from the outside. It’s most effective for shallow to moderate dents where access to the area around the dent is available.