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:

    Spark control system components (carburettor models) - removal and refitting
    Spark delay and sustain valves 1 Disconnect the vacuum pipes at the valve and withdraw the valve. 2 When refitting a spark delay valve, the valve must be positioned with the black end (marked “CA ...

    Fuel pump - removal and refitting
    Note: Refer to the precautions at the end of Section 1 before proceeding. Removal 1 The fuel pump is bolted to the underside of the car just to the rear of the fuel tank. For access raise and sup ...

    Water pump - removal and refitting
    OHV engines Note: A new gasket and suitable jointing compound must be used on refitting. Removal 1 Drain the cooling system as described in Chapter 1. 2 Slacken the three water pump pulley reta ...