Universal alignment systems consist of a vehicle
mounting (universal clamps at the rocker panels)
and a pulling device. In addition, a measuring
system is required.
NOTE: Because universal clamps are used, the
rocker panel area must be reworked for optical and
corrosion protection reasons after the repair is
completed.
Pay attention to the following points:
• Clean the attachment areas.
• Anchor the vehicle free of stress on the relevant
system.
• Support the aggregates to take strain off the
body.
Measuring systems
In order to exactly diagnose a damaged vehicle
body, measuring systems are required. Depending
on the measuring method, the systems vary in
having mechanical, optical, acoustic and electronic
measuring devices. In some cases, hybrid versions
of particular systems are found.
NOTE: When working with each measuring system,
the manufacturer's instructions provided in the
description of the measuring equipment must be
followed.
Basically, the measuring systems must meet the
following requirements:
• Universally applicable to all types of passenger
car. Also can be used on light commercial and
off-road vehicles.
• Suitable for all accident damage.
• Fast capture of body measurement points in the
underfloor and external areas.
• Data catalog to record all measurement points
(length, width and height) both with and without
the aggregates being installed.
NOTE: Basic and in-depth training is offered on
the following topics. You will find an overview of
the complete range of training offered in the Ford
Service Organization training brochure.
Beam compass
The beam compass is a very practical and
straightforward aid for measuring bodywork and
especially floor assemblies. The beam compass
can be used to detect dimensional variations
across the length and the width by means of
comparison measurements and diagonal
measurements.
As a basic principal, body reference points should
be chosen which are shown in the body frame
measurement data sheet.
NOTE: To be able to determine difference in
measurements, the same reference points must
always be chosen on both sides. For this purpose
the beam compass must be positioned
symmetrically.
Comparison measurements can also be made on
the outside of the body. Depending on the damage,
left/right measurements (symmetry measurements)
and diagonal measurements can be made using
the beam compass, telescopic rod or a measuring
tape.
Laser measuring systems
These systems use laser beams which are
projected in one or more planes.
By the use of two parallel laser heads which can
be turned, symmetrical points of a vehicle body
can be tested and compared. Using the linear
scales which are attached to the measuring points,
the measurement data is read off with the aid of
the projected laser beams.
The integral inclination gauge also allows
differences in height to be quickly checked.
Mechanical measuring system
The use of mechanical measuring equipment is an
easy and effective way to check a vehicle frame
and chassis assembly quickly, exactly and reliably.
In many cases an assessment of the damage can
be made with the help of this system, without the
need for elaborate setting up.
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Body Repairs - General Information
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DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
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