Major body damage - repair

Where serious damage has occurred or large areas need renewal due to neglect, it means that completely new sections or panels will need welding in, and this is best left to professionals. If the damage is due to impact, it will also be necessary to completely check the alignment of the bodyshell structure. Due to the principle of construction, the strength and shape of the whole car can be affected by damage to one part. In such instances the service of a dealer with specialist checking jigs are essential. If a body is left misaligned, it is first of all dangerous, as the car will not handle properly, and secondly uneven stresses will be imposed on the steering, engine and transmission, causing abnormal wear or complete failure. Tyre wear may also be excessive.

    See also:

    Crankshaft and bearings - examination and renovation
    1 Examine the bearing surfaces of the crankshaft for scratches or scoring and, using a micrometer, check each journal and crankpin for ovality. Where this is found to be in excess of 0.0254 mm (0. ...

    Bodywork and fittings
    General information The model range includes 4-door Saloon, 3 and 5-door Hatchback, 5-door Estate, and 2- door Pick-up body styles. Each body is of all-steel welded energyabsorbing monocoque cons ...

    Dimensions and Weights
    Note: All figures are approximate, and may vary according to model. Refer to manufacturer’s data for exact figures. Dimensions Overall length: Pre-1986 models: Saloon and Cabriolet . . . . . . . ...