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:

    Cylinder head - dismantling and reassembly
    Note: A valve spring compressor will be required during this procedure. New valve stem oil seals should be used on reassembly. 1.8 litre (R2A type) Dismantling 1 With the cylinder head removed, ...

    Oil pump - removal and refitting
    Note: New oil pump and oil pick-up tube gaskets should be used when refitting. Removal 1 With the engine removed, proceed as follows. 2 Remove the timing belt, crankshaft sprocket and thrustwash ...

    Fuel tank - removal and refitting
    The procedures are the same as described in Part A of this Chapter for carburettor engines, but in addition disconnect the fuel tank-to-fuel pump hose from the rear face of the tank. ...