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:

    Exhaust manifold - removal and refitting
    Note: A new gasket will be required on refitting. Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 On carburettor and CFI engine models remove the air cleaner as described in the appropriate Pa ...

    Rear suspension angles - general
    The rear wheel toe and camber angles are set in production and do not require checking under normal service conditions. Of the two, only the toe setting can be adjusted, the camber angle being fix ...

    Diagram 1: 1980-86 Starting, charging, and ignition (except fuel injection models)
    Diagram 1: 1980-86 Starting, charging, and ignition (except fuel injection models) ...