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:

    Radiator grille panel - removal and refitting
    Models up to 1987 1 With the bonnet raised, remove the four grille panel securing screws from the top of the front panel. 2 Lift the grille panel from its lower mounting bushes, and withdraw it f ...

    Rear disc caliper - removal, overhaul and refitting
    Note: Complete dismantling of the rear caliper should not be attempted unless Ford spring compressor (tool No 12-007) is available, or unless the problems likely to arise in the absence of the too ...

    Heated Exhaust Gas Oxygen (HEGO) sensor - removal and refitting
    Note: A new sealing ring will be required on refitting. Removal 1 Apply the handbrake, then jack up the front of the vehicle and support it on axle stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”). 2 ...