Abstract: A method and manual apparatus for the semimechanical galvanizing of sheet metal surfaces according to an absorbent covering, which serves for the post-galvanizing of body sheet metal panels within the area of a damage of the zinc layer. According to this method, the surface of the panal is electrocleaned within the area of the damage with an aqueous alkaline solution by an automatic to and fro movement by means of an absorbent covering secured at the hand apparatus. Thereafter, a zinc electrolyte on an alkaline basis is applied by the movement of the hand apparatus by means of a further absorbent covering connected with the hand apparatus with a current of about 10 to 15 A and a voltage of 11 to 13 V and a zinc layer with a thickness of 8 to 12 .mu.m is produced.