Auto Body Technician how-to
How to Measure a Vehicle on a Frame Machine
Accurate measurement shows whether a structure is straight before and after repair.
Quick answer
Accurate measurement shows whether a structure is straight before and after repair. In short: mount; look; set, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Mount the vehicle securely on the frame machine.
Look up the manufacturer’s dimension chart for reference points.
Set up the measuring system and zero it to undamaged points.
Measure damaged areas and compare them with specifications.
Plan pulls in the reverse direction of the impact.
Re-measure after each pull until the structure is within tolerance.
Safety reminders for auto body technicians
- Wear a supplied-air or approved respirator when spraying paints with isocyanates
- Use eye, ear and hand protection when grinding and welding
- Support vehicles properly on lifts and stands
- Disable airbags and disconnect batteries before working nearby
Key terms
Unibody · Frame machine · Datum · High-strength steel · Sectioning · Spot weld: see the full auto body technician glossary.