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Repairing Major Body Damage - Measuring Dimensions
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With reference to the body centerline, measure the major dimensions of the damaged body with the use of a measurement equipment. This makes numerical evaluation of to body damage amount possible. Body dimensions that influence wheel alignment are particularly important. Visual inspection alone is not sufficient. |
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Diagonal measurements (X measurements) | |
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Measure using the body measuring dimensions in the model specific body repair manual (Actual measurement figures) | |
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Measurements with the use of a frame repair chart (flat view data) | |
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By combining the measurement methods above, diagnosis of the overall body damage level is possible.
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Using a part installation hole or reference hole, which is one of two symmetrical right and left positions as a measuring point, diagonally measure the lengths of the front body, windows, passenger compartment, trunk or cargo area, tailgate opening, or under body. From this data, the deformation of the vehicle as a whole can be judged.
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Always combine the diagonal measurement with another measuring method as the diagonal measurement may not show all the deformation that exists. |
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Reference to the Drawing of Body Dimensions:
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While referring to the body dimensional drawing shown in the model specific body repair manual, measure the corresponding dimensions on the actual vehicle in fore and aft, right and left and diagonal directions to evaluate the damage level.
Depending on the amount of damage, the measurements from the undamaged parts of the vehicle may also be used for to evaluate damage levels.
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Measurements According to the Frame Repair Chart:
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Measure the plain dimensions referring to the frame repair chart of the model specific body repair manual.
The measurement points in the repair chart use the installation positions of critical components of a vehicle as datum points; such as the installation holes of the sub frame, engine, transmission, suspension related parts.
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Always be sure to use equipment or gauges designed for vehicle body repair.
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