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:

    Auxiliary shaft - removal, inspection and refitting
    Note: A new gasket should be used when refitting the auxiliary shaft cover (see text). Removal 1 Remove the timing belt and the auxiliary shaft sprocket. 2 Remove the distributor. 3 Remove the m ...

    Cylinder head - dismantling and reassembly
    Note: A valve spring compressor will be required during this procedure. New valve stem oil seals should be used on reassembly. 1.8 litre (R2A type) Dismantling 1 With the cylinder head removed, ...

    Rear disc splash shield - removal and refitting
    Note: A suitable puller will be required to remove the drive flange, and a new rear hub nut must be used on reassembly. Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1. Removal 1 Loosen the rear ...