Computerized Measurement Method - Use of Measuring and
Alignment Systems
Measuring and alignment systems are to be used to ensure
accurate repair of a deformed body structure.
These systems make is possible to not only check the frame floor
groups for dimensional accuracy, but also to align body components
directly and, if necessary, secure and weld in place new body parts
at the right size.
Opel/Vauxhall recommends use of measuring and alignment systems
from the following manufacturers:
The measurement and control points for the frame body group and
body structure are found in the vehicle-specific measurement data
sheet from the measuring and alignment system manufacturer. Follow
the operating instructions and regulations of the system
manufacturer.
Use of Measuring System
Opel/Vauxhall favors the use of a computerised measuring system
for documented damage assessment before and after bodywork
repair.
In the case of damage calculation, a time allowance for
determining the extent of damage with computerised measuring
systems is obtained from the labour time guidelines.
The advantages are obvious:
• |
Transparency, certification
and quality of vehicle repair for the customer and insurance are
ensured. |
• |
New vehicle variants are
available quickly through rapid data transmission. |
• |
During alignment, a
computerised measuring system makes it possible to continually
compare desired and actual values and defines and records the
changes made. |
Vehicle Retainers/Bracket Kits
Basically, the separation of measurement and alignment is the
qualitatively correct approach. Due to the increased use of
computerised measuring systems of measuring and alignment system
manufacturers in conjunction with the universal vehicle retainers
and holding tools for new components, Opel/Vauxhall no longer
requires a special bracket kit for each vehicle variant.
The reasons for this are as follows:
• |
Special bracket kits that
fulfil both a measuring and a holding function inevitably cause
mechanical wear. |
• |
This purely mechanical repair
process cannot be documented and thus does not comply with the
Opel/Vauxhall Quality Strategy for bodywork repair. |
• |
The undertaking, especially
making bracket kits available for each vehicle type and, if
necessary for any model year modifications, is very expensive, cost
intensive and out-of-date. |
• |
Universal bracket kits make it
possible to reshape the vehicle areas regardless of the fixing
function of the holding tools for new components. |
Note: Opel/Vauxhall shall
support any system manufacturer who wishes to offer these special
bracket kits for individual vehicle variants. The decision
regarding the development and production of these special bracket
kits, however, rests with the individual system manufacturer.
Opel/Vauxhall shall place its focus on the development of
computerised measuring systems combined with universal vehicle
retrainers and holding tools for new components.
Notes on Vehicle Floor/Frame Assembly
All work on members, frames, struts and wheel housings is to be
carried out in alignment systems.
• |
Visually inspect the vehicle
floor/frame assembly for dents, creases, buckling and
deformation. |
• |
If frame damage cannot be
definitively ruled out, vehicle damage assessment must be carried
out. |
• |
Assess the vehicle for damage
using the computerised measuring systems and the datasheets.
|
• |
Generate a test record for the
assessor and insurance. |
• |
Should body measurements
exceed the specified tolerances, take the necessary measures to
remedy the problem. |
• |
Upon completion of repair
work, reassess the vehicle in order to document changes.
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