TRADE OF VEHICLE BODY REPAIR - eCollege

Module 3– Unit 4
Roof Panel
The roof panel is one of the largest of all major body panels and it
is also one of the simplest in construction. The area which the roof
covers varies between different makes and models of cars. On some
cars, the roof panel extends downwards around the windscreen so
that the windscreen opening is actually in the roof. On some cars
the roof ends above the rear window, while on others it extends
downwards so that the rear window opening is in the lower rear
roof. When this is the case the roof panel forms the top panel
around the rear boot opening. Some special body designs
incorporate different methods of rear window construction, which
affects the roof panel; this is particularly true for estate cars,
hatchbacks and hardtop convertibles. Alternatively the top is joined
to the rear quarter panel by another smaller panel which is part of
the roof assembly.
The stiffness of the roof
is built in by the nature
given to it by the
forming presses, while
reinforcements,
consisting of small metal
strips placed crosswise
to the roof at intervals along the inside surface, serve to stiffen the
front and rear edges of the windscreen and rear window frames. In
some designs the roof panel may have a sliding roof built in or a
flip-up detachable sunroof incorporated.
Rear Quarter Panel or Tonneau Assembly
This is integral with the side frame assembly and has both inner and
outer construction. The inner construction comprises the rear
wheel arch and the rear seat heelboard assembly. This provides the
support for the rear seat squab in a saloon car; if the vehicle is a
hatchback or estate car, the two back seats will fold flat and the seat
squabs will need no support. This area is known as the rear
bulkhead of the car; it gives additional transverse strength between
the wheel arch sections and provides support from the rear seat.
The rear bulkhead also acts as a partition between the luggage and
passenger compartments.
Vehicle Body Repairs - Phase 2 58