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:

    Pistons and connecting rods - examination and renovation
    1.8 litre (R2A type) 1 Examine the pistons for ovality, scoring, and scratches. Check the connecting rods for wear or damage. 2 The gudgeon pins are an interference fit in the connecting rods, an ...

    Exhaust manifold nut check - RS Turbo models (Every 6000 miles or 6 months)
    Check the tightness of the exhaust manifold securing nuts using a torque wrench. ...

    Engine/automatic transmission assembly - removal and separation
    Note: Refer to the warning in Section 8 before proceeding. A suitable hoist and lifting tackle will be required for this operation. Any suspected faults in the automatic transmission should be ref ...