Underbody Misalignment Check
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Montego, 2005 Ford Freestyle, and 2005 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
Do not attempt to correct any serious misalignment with a pulling/pushing operation. Damage to the structure could occur.
NOTE:
To make sure of accurate measurements, remove all trim from the reference points to expose bare metal.
NOTE:
The subframe is not meant to be straightened. If structural damage occurs to the subframe, a new subframe should be installed.
- 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 vehicle and transfer the dimensions to the damaged vehicle. Alignment can be made by diagonal measurements taken from points on the 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.