Underbody Misalignment Check
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer and 2005 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- To align or square a body, take 2 opposite diagonal measurements between pillars. Take measurements between reference points such as crease lines or weld joints which are diagonally opposite each other on the 2 pillars being measured.
- When repairing a vehicle with damage on both sides, take horizontal and vertical measurements from an intact Explorer or Mountaineer vehicle and transfer the dimensions to the damaged vehicle. Alignment can be made by diagonal measurements taken from points on 2 pillars.
- The dimensions of the underbody must be restored in repairing major body damage to provide correct front and rear wheel geometry. Once the frame and suspension members are aligned, other repair operations can be carried out.
CAUTION:
Do not correct serious misalignment with one jacking operation. Align each section proportionately until the correct dimensions are obtained.
NOTE:
To make sure measurements are accurate, remove all trim from the reference points to expose bare metal.