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:

    Rear suspension lower arm (Saloon, Hatchback and Estate models) - removal and refitting
    Models with rear drum brakes Removal 1 Chock the front wheels, jack up the rear of the vehicle and support on axle stands placed under the side members. 2 Remove the relevant driveshaft. 3 Remov ...

    Rear wheel cylinder - removal, overhaul and refitting
    Note: Before starting work, refer to the warning at the beginning of Section 2 concerning the dangers of asbestos dust, and to the warning at the beginning of Section 3 concerning the dangers of h ...

    Distributor (OHC models) - removal and refitting
    Note: During production the engine ignition timing is accurately set using a microwave process, and sealant is applied to the distributor clamp bolt. Removal of the distributor should be avoided e ...