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:

    Front anti-roll bar - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 The anti-roll bar is used in conjunction with the forged type suspension lower arm. 2 Jack up the front of the car and support it on stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”). 3 Where ...

    Electrical fault-finding - general information
    Note: Refer to the precautions given in “Safety first!” and in Section 1 of this Chapter before starting work. The following tests relate to testing of the main electrical circuits, and should not ...

    Handbrake - adjustment
    1 Adjustment of the handbrake is normally automatic by means of the self-adjusting mechanism working on the rear brake shoes. 2 However, due to cable stretch, occasional inspection of the handbrak ...