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:

    Battery
    Your vehicle is equipped with a Motorcraft maintenance-free battery which normally does not require additional water during its life of service. However, for severe usage or in high temperature ...

    Front foglamps - removal and refitting
    1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. Models up to 1987 2 Remove the relevant front direction indicator lamp unit. 3 Release the retaining catch on the inside edge of the lamp, then withdraw th ...

    Crankshaft and main bearings - removal and refitting
    1.8 litre (R2A type) Removal 1 With the engine removed from the vehicle, remove the timing belt, crankshaft sprocket and thrustwasher. 2 Remove the pistons and connecting rods. If no work is to ...