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:
Engine oil and filter renewal (Every 6000 miles (10 000 km) or 6 months)
1 Frequent oil and filter changes are the most
important preventative maintenance
procedures which can be undertaken by the
DIY owner. As engine oil ages, it becomes
diluted and contaminated, whic ...
Front suspension lower arm - removal, overhaul and refitting
Note: A balljoint separator tool will be
required for this operation.
Removal
1 To improve access, raise the front of the
vehicle on ramps. Do not jack the vehicle up
at this stage. Apply the han ...
Front hub bearings - renewal
Note: A new driveshaft nut, and a new tie-rod
balljoint split-pin must be used on refitting.
1 Remove the wheel trim and release the
staking on the driveshaft retaining nut using a
suitable punch. ...
