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 - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Drain the cooling system. 3 If not already done, disconnect the bottom hose from the radiator. 4 Disconnect the top hose and the expansion tank ...

    Idle speed and mixture adjustment (Every 6000 miles or 6 months)
    Caution: Certain adjustment points in the fuel system are protected by “tamperproof” caps, plugs or seals. In some EEC countries (though not yet in the UK) it is an offence to drive a vehicle wit ...

    Fuel system - depressurising
    Warning: The fuel system will remain pressurised after the engine is switched off. Comply with relevant safety precautions during this operation and refer to the “Safety First” Section at the beg ...