Our Subject Vehicle is a 1997 Saturn SC2. As
is evident in the photos the car has been hit hard in the front
end.
The outer panels have been removed. As
you can see the front bumper reinforcement is bent in half. The core support,
both upper outer rails and both apron front sections will require
replacement.
The
Saturn is then set-up on one of our Car-O-liner Bench Measuring systems.
This allows us to precisely locate the correct tolerances of the space frame
for relocation of the structural components.
A
hydraulic pulling arm is used to relocate the structural inner panels and
rails. The Space frame is pulled back to factory specifications in order
to align the panels adjacent to those being replaced. This will insure structural
integrity as well as proper body panel fit.
The
components of the space frame to be replaced are then removed. There are
over 300 individual spot-welds holding the panels together. Many of these
need to be drilled out for panel removal. Of course each and every weld is
replaced per Saturn procedures. After the space frame’s structure
is aligned to factory specifications, the Car-O-Liner Bench measuring system
is used to locate the correct position for the new panel replacement. The
structural panels are then clamped and MIG welded into
place.
After
the Space frame is restored, it treated with a corrosion resistant epoxy
primer and painted. Special care is taken to match the gloss of the inner
panels to the factory appearance. The car is now ready to reassemble.
The
Saturn is un-masked. The inner components such as the fuse-block, radiator, air-conditioning
condenser and battery are now ready to be
reinstalled.
The
car is now ready for installation of the outer body panels. Since many of
the outer body panels are plastic it is extremely critical to have the inner
structure in proper alignment.
The new paint is wet-sanded to match the factory
texture and then buffed back to a gloss. Of course in this type of repair
a 4-wheel alignment is a must as well as a good, thorough test drive. A light
check is done. The car’s interior is vacuumed, the glass is cleaned
and leather or vinyl is treated. The engine and exterior enjoy a good pressure
washing prior to the final quality control inspection. Another satisfied
customer is called to get their car.
Crash Course Complete
Eastside CARSTAR
Auto Rebuild
