Body Misalignment Check

BODY MISALIGNMENT CHECK

1. NOTICE:
- Never apply excessive heat to the bumper surface. Heat could cause the bumper to distort. When collecting exhaust fumes in the service area, never attach a metal collector to the exhaust tail pipe as the heat could damage the bumper.
- Any attempt to cold-straighten a severely bent bracket may cause rupture of the welds (if any) and may also cause cracks in the bent part. Never heat the area to more than 670°C (1,238°F). Always use temperature-indicating crayons when applying heat to any part.
- Do not attempt to correct any serious misalignment in one pulling/pushing operation. Damage to the structure may occur.

To align or square up a body, take 2 opposite diagonal measurements between the front, center or rear pillars. Take the measurements between reference points, as crease lines or weld joints, which are diagonally opposite each other on the 2 pillars being measured.

Since all measurements should be made from the bare metal, remove all interior trim or chassis components from the points being checked.

2. Align each section proportionately, until the proper dimensions are obtained. If body alignment is questionable, refer to Underbody Misalignment Check.
3. Due to the design and construction of the unibody vehicle, it is important to monitor the upper body structure while making any corrections to the underbody structure.
4. Roughly straighten badly damaged areas before taking measurements for squaring up the unibody body. Remove the glass to prevent breakage. In severe cases, reinforcement brackets and other inner construction parts may have to be removed or cut to permit restoration of the outer shell and pillars without excessive strain on the parts.
5. In case of severe or sharp bends, it may be necessary to use heat. Never heat the area to more than 670°C (1,238°F). Always use temperature-indicating crayons when applying heat to any part.