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:

    Pistons and connecting rods - removal and refitting
    1.8 litre (R2A type) Removal 1 With the engine removed from the vehicle, remove the sump and the cylinder head. 2 Check the big-end caps for identification marks and if necessary use a centre-pun ...

    Maintenance - bodywork, underside and fittings
    The general condition of a vehicle’s bodywork is the one thing that significantly affects its value. Maintenance is easy but needs to be regular. Neglect, particularly after minor damage, can lead ...

    Air cleaner air temperature control - description and testing
    Thermostatically-controlled air cleaner 1 On all pre-1986 models and certain models from 1986 onwards, the air cleaner is thermostatically-controlled by a vacuum operated system to provide air at ...