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:

    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 ...

    Fuel pressure regulator - removal and refitting
    Note: Refer to the precautions at the end of Section 1 before proceeding. A new sealing ring will be required on refitting. Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Depressurise the fuel ...

    Mixture adjustment check (Every 6000 miles (10 000 km) or 6 months)
    Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1, Chapter 4, Part A or B (as applicable), before proceeding. Before carrying out any carburettor adjustments, ensure that the ignition timing and sp ...