Ford Explorer: Body Repairs - General Information / Description and Operation - Complete Panel Replacement/Partial Replacement

Partial Replacement

Decision Criteria

The following points a crucial to the decision of complete or partial replacement of the part(s).

• Is the repair economically feasible.

• Retention/integrity of the original joint.

In addition, sectioning or partial panel replacement must meet standardized guidelines or approved procedures in the model specific workshop manual for a sectional replacement solution in the damaged area.
For additional information, refer to: Body Panel Sectioning (501-26 Body Repairs - Vehicle Specific Information and Tolerance Checks, General Procedures).

Depending on the damaged area, the following points need to be considered when determining whether to perform a partial repair or complete replacement:

• Sectioning cuts should be as short as possible.

• Feature lines and panel margins must meet original manufacture design.
  For additional information, refer to: Body and Frame (501-26 Body Repairs - Vehicle Specific Information and Tolerance Checks, Description and Operation).
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• Inner reinforcement panels must not limit the straightening work.

• Inner reinforcement profiles in the pillar areas must allow for separation.

• Partial replacements on structural frame sections must be allowed for the specific vehicle being repaired. If no procedure exists, it must be assumed no sectioning is allowed.

• The large surface welding seams at the connections must be restored.

Advantages of Partial Replacement

A partial replacement repair offers many advantages for a professional repair of accident damage:

• Repairs can be made both in the outer panel area (e.g. side frame) and in the inner areas (e.g. structural member, trunk floor).

• The repair can be limited to the actual damaged area.

• Reduction of repair costs, as aggregates and other components can usually remain in the vehicle.

Complete Replacement

In a complete replacement, the original connections are largely reused.

A complete replacement is advantageous if the damaged body part can be detached from its original connections and the replacement part can be fitted without creating additional joints.

A complete replacement is necessary if there is no sectional replacement solution.