Hey Bob , I said that because they appear to be bent with a mounged up thread , so if you were to just back it out it might get stuck and strip the i d thread . I would cut and file to get it all cleaned up before you back it out Also I didn't mean to say putty filler , I meant to say spot filler . spot filler is like a very thick primer and it comes in a tube (auto parts store should have it ) Glazing & Spot Putty 4.5 Oz at National Tool Warehouse to use it first give a good even sand then use the putty to fill the chipped areas , then lightly sand . I hope that helps . I like your frame .