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:

    Centre console - removal and refitting
    Models up to 1990 Full length console 1 Where applicable, prise the electric window switches from the front upper console panel and disconnect the wiring. 2 Remove the three securing screws from ...

    General description
    The body is of welded steel construction available in 3 or 5-door Hatchback, 3 or 5- door Estate, soft-top Cabriolet, or Van configurations. The body is of monocoque construction and is of energy ...

    Throttle cable - adjustment, removal and refitting
    The procedure is similar to that described in Part A of this Chapter for carburettor engines. ...