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:

    Switches - removal and refitting
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    Carburettor (Ford VV type) - removal and refitting
    Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1 before proceeding. Note: A new gasket must be used when refitting the carburettor. A tachometer and an exhaust gas analyser will be required to chec ...

    Engine dismantling, examination, renovation and reassembly - general information
    Dismantling 1 It is best to mount the engine on a dismantling stand but if this is not available, stand the engine on a strong bench at a comfortable working height. Failing this, it will have to ...