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:

    Master cylinder (conventional braking system) - removal, overhaul and refitting
    Note: Before commencing overhaul obtain a repair kit containing new pistons and seals. Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1. Removal 1 Depress the brake pedal several times to dissipat ...

    Rear roadspring (Saloon and Estate models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Raise the rear of the car and support it on stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”). Remove the roadwheel. 2 Support the suspension lower arm by placing a jack beneath the spring sea ...

    Loudspeakers - removal and refitting
    1 Disconnect the battery earth lead. Facia panel-mounted speakers Upper 2 Prise the speaker grille from its four retaining clips in the facia using a thin-bladed screwdriver. 3 Remove the four s ...