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.

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    Thermostat - removal, testing and refitting
    OHV engines Note: A new gasket must be used on refitting. Removal 1 Drain the cooling system as described in Chapter 1. 2 Slacken the clips and disconnect the hoses at the thermostat housing (se ...

    Expansion tank and coolant level sensor - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 With the engine cold, slowly unscrew the expansion tank cap to release any remaining pressure from the cooling system. Remove the cap. 2 Place a suitable container beneath the expansio ...

    Automatic transmission fluid level check (Every 12 000 miles or 12 months)
    1 The automatic transmission fluid level must be checked when the engine and transmission are at normal operating temperature; preferably after a short journey. 2 Park the car on level ground, the ...