Note: If work on the electrical system is also carried out as part of the work on the body (even if it's a simple disconnection of some electrical wire) be sure to disconnect the battery (see chapter 5).
If necessary, a plastic wedge, such as Hazet 1965-20, must be used to remove trim elements of body elements. Clamps and clips that are damaged when trim panels are removed must be replaced. If possible, it is better to replace all removed plastic fasteners. Of great importance for keeping the elements of the body in good condition and maintaining a respectable appearance of the car is the current care. The maintenance procedures are extremely simple, but must be performed on a regular basis. Neglecting the smallest mechanical damage and paintwork defects can lead to the rapid development of corrosion and the need for costly body repairs. It is also important to regularly check the condition of hidden surfaces and parts, such as wheel arches, the lower part of the bulkheads of the engine compartment, etc. It is necessary to periodically carry out a complete wash of the car, cleaning the bottom and the structural elements located under it. During the next scheduled maintenance, inspect all body elements to identify defects, violations of the anti-corrosion coating and eliminate them in a timely manner. It will not be superfluous to use modern car care products - while strictly following the instructions given in the accompanying instructions for each specific product.
Safety instructions for body work
- a) In order to avoid triggering elements of the additional security system (SRS) as a result of shaking when performing leveling, etc. work, without fail, turn off the ignition and disconnect both wires from the battery terminals;
- b) Where welding is required, spot welding should be used. If access to the elements to be welded with welding tongs is not possible, then welding in a shielding gas environment should be used. When carrying out welding work, it is also mandatory to disconnect or completely remove the battery (see chapter 5);
- c) On models equipped with an air conditioning system, it is forbidden to solder and weld when the system is filled with refrigerant, if the elements of the A/C system may heat up during these works. See also safety precautions in Chapter 3, Section 1;
- d) When performing painting or other works on restoring the body coating, in order to avoid failure of the electrical wiring and electronic systems, as well as the permission of the A/C system due to pressure increase, do not allow the car to heat up in the drying chamber above +80°C;
- e) Applied to the bottom of the body to protect against corrosion, the PVC coating, if necessary, must be removed either with a special metal cheek mounted on a drill or with a spatula after preheating with a special hair dryer. Care must be taken heating the coating to a temperature of +180°C and above will lead to the formation of hydrochloric acid, and vapors hazardous to health are formed. Acid also contributes to increased corrosion of the bottom.
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