Abstract: A guide coat is formed on a surface as part of a smoothing operation, eg of a vehicle bodywork, by distributing finely divided particulate material, eg a non-toxic, a water-based black powder paint, over the surface so the material remains on and thus highlights any irregularities on the surface. The material may be wiped onto the surface by an applicator, eg synthetic foam or sponge (7), impregnated with the material. The material may be stored in a container (1) in a loose, finely divided form (2) or in a compact, substantially solid form (9) from which finely divided particles may be removed. The majority of the material is subsequently removed from the surface as the surface is abraded to removed the highlighted irregularities.

Abstract: The apparatus has a first container part within which material for distributing over a surface as a guide coat is held in a substantially loose, finely divided particulate form; a perforated element through which the particulate material can be sprinkled or shaken; and a second container part for receiving an applicator, e.g., in the form of a sponge, on which the particulate material is to be sprinkled or shaken. The apparatus may be provided with the applicator or as a replacement part or “re-fill” for existing apparatus. Particulate material may also be provided for re-charging such apparatus.

Abstract: A sealing strip comprising an elongate sealing portion formed of resiliently compressible material such as foam and an elongate attachment portion extending laterally from the sealing portion. The attachment portion is provided with adhesive to affix it to the rear side of a first body panel so that the sealing portion is located in a gap between the panel and an adjacent component so as to seal or mask the gap therebetween. The sealing portion and attachment portion are preferably integrally formed by an extrusion process. The sealing strip has particular application to the sealing of the “B” post gap of a motor vehicle.

Abstract: The apparatus has a first container part within which material for distributing over a surface as a guide coat is held in a substantially loose, finely divided particulate form; a perforated element through which the particulate material can be sprinkled or shaken; and a second container part for receiving an applicator, e.g., in the form of a sponge, on which the particulate material is to be sprinkled or shaken. The apparatus may be provided with the applicator or as a replacement part or “re-fill” for existing apparatus. Particulate material may also be provided for re-charging such apparatus.

Abstract: The sealing strip comprises an elongate sealing portion formed of resiliently compressible material such as foam and an elongate attachment portion extending laterally from the sealing portion. The attachment portion is provided with adhesive to affix it to the rear side of a first body panel so that the sealing portion is located in a gap between the panel and an adjacent component so as to seal or mask the gap therebetween. The sealing portion and attachment portion are preferably integrally formed by an extrusion process. The sealing strip has particular application to the sealing of the "B" post gap of a motor vehicle.

Abstract: A guide coat is formed on a surface as part of a smoothing operation, e.g., during vehicle bodywork, by distributing finely divided particulate material, e.g., a non-toxic, water-based black powder paint, over the surface so the material remains on and thus highlights any irregularities on the surface. The material may be wiped onto the surface by an applicator, e.g., synthetic foam or sponge, impregnated with the material. The material may be stored in a container in a loose, finely divided form or in a compact, substantially solid form from which finely divided particles may be removed. The majority of the material is subsequently removed from the surface as the surface is abraded to remove the highlighted irregularities.