Prime and block is the process that restores a repaired panel to an undamaged state. This process needs to be done anytime there has been a repair to a panel and also during the replacement of a welded part at the seam. Here is the definition in the Motor Guide to Estimating and is found under the refinish section of the guide for Prime and Block.

“PRIME & BLOCK

Prime & block (high build/primer-filler) is a required procedure

that restores a repaired panel surface, including the joined areas of

replaced welded panels, from 150-grit finish to NEW UNDAMAGED

condition. It is MOTOR’s position that prime and block is a

process best reserved for the judgment of an estimator/appraiser

following a thorough on-the-spot evaluation of the specific vehicle

and damage in question.”

Recently the DEG received an inquiry, 4504, because the shop was informed by the insurance company that Prime and Block is an operation that is partially performed in the body department and therefore the adjuster was refusing to add Prime and Block to the estimate. The shop submitted an inquiry asking CCC if they consider Prime and Block to be a refinish or body operation. CCC/Motor responded that the Prime and Block operation is considered a refinish procedure. Below is the inquiry and shows the resolution from CCC/Motor

DEG Inquiry 4504

Prime And Block

Issue Summary - Is prime and block a refinish operations or body operation? Because of rules and regulations the prime needs to be in a controlled area of the refinish department.

Suggested Action - Block & Prime is defines as a refinish operation as defined in P-Pages. As per procedure pages the body work stops at 150 grit and Block & Prime is a necessary to step to repair panels to 320 grit as necessary for paint....nowhere does it say that block & prime is a "Body Operation". Need clear definition by CCC on Block and prime as all print states it is a refinish operation.

Resolution:

IP Explanation

Estimated Release Date: Closed
Proposed Resolution: MOTOR stated:
According to the MOTOR Guide To Estimating, under the Refinish Premise, MOTOR states that “Prime & block (high build/primer-filler) is a required procedure that restores a repaired panel surface, including the joined areas of replaced welded panels, from 150-grit finish to NEW UNDAMAGED condition.” MOTOR considers Prime and Block to be a refinish operation.

This is in line with what Mitchell publishes in their Collision Estimating Guide by saying

“Feather, Prime & Block

Is the Not-Included refinish operation that completes bodywork repair from

150 grit smoothness to the condition of a new undamaged panel, and the

point at which refinish labor time begins. The labor and materials associated

with feather, prime and block may vary depending upon the size of the

repair area, and should be evaluated when determining the work”

Prime and Bock is a necessary operation on most repairs and by understanding the P-Pages and also utilizing the DEG you have additional resources when challenged by an adjuster or appraiser. If you have a question on this issue or would like to contact the DEG please visit us at www.degweb.org