Body clamp: description and characteristics

Body grips, clamps and chains make up a set of straightening tools, designed for repair activities. In the process of work they provide the necessary tractive effort, due to which the master corrects the deformation of the target design, that is, the bodywork. Devices of this type can have different parameters, characteristics and operational capabilities. Therefore, it is important to have an initial understanding of the possible requirements for the device. Usually the body clamp is selected for a particular model of the car, but there are also universal kits.

General information about straightening clamps

The straightening automotive clamp is an integral part of the repair kits. Restoration of the geometry of the metal body excludes the possibility of thermal impact, so the effort exerted is purely mechanical. In other words, hydraulic pressure is used, as a result of which defects in geometric shape are corrected. Specifically, the clip for bodywork is used as a fixing device. Such a set includes fastening bolts, opening the clamp, supporting bracket, gripping devices, support platform, etc. The clamp itself is only a component in the overall technical organization of the process. The basis of the same operations is provided by slipways and power hydraulics. But this does not at all diminish the value of the clamping, since the reliability of the repair depends on its reliability and service life.

Device Features

The clamp models differ in different parameters, the main of which is the maximum permissible load. On average, such a device is calculated to work with 2-5 tons. This does not mean that the load corresponds to the tonnage of the car itself. Pulling force is not always associated with the mass of the machine, since pulling is done in the horizontal direction, in which the thrust is determined only by the complexity of the deformation and the characteristics of the body structure. In this case, you must consider the number of directions that the tool supports. The simplest models have a 2-ton force only in the forward direction, and representatives of the middle segment are able to work also in the lateral direction. Usually the body clamp of this type allows a 5-ton load in the straight and 2-ton in the lateral direction. From the point of view of the possibilities of the grip itself, it is important to calculate the width of the clamp. A value of 120 mm is considered universal. As for the mass of the instrument itself, it varies from 1-2 to 15 kg.

Recommendations for use

The work with the clamps is only a stage in the overall straightening exercise, aimed at correcting the geometry of the body. First of all, the so-called control zones are chosen - the places in which it will be expedient to fasten the clamps. Further, the car is put on the slipway with the most favorable position from the point of view of installation. Specialists recommend to locate the machine so that the power rack and body are separated by a distance of 60-70 cm. After that, the body clamp is installed. With your hands, the elements of the kit can be fixed with screws, adjusting them in height. By the way, the height is determined by the location of the deformed sections. If there is confidence in the correctness of the selected installation configuration, then you should proceed to the final bolt fixing. Check the tightening quality of the fixing elements will be necessary after each pulling force. If you omit this nuance, there is a risk of breaking the clamp, which can lead to an accident.

Consumables for clamps

Accessories for body alignment are selected not so much for the clamping as for the general set of slipways in order to improve the quality and efficiency of the work process. What can be required in this operation? Depending on the equipment used, sometimes masters use auto chemistry. This can be, for example, the lubrication of metal fasteners in the form of nanoshampoo. The body clamp clips themselves can directly contact the chains and belts. It is important that these components correspond to the clamp according to the reliability characteristics. This is especially true for lamellas made of composite materials.

Manufacturers

Clamps are produced by many companies, but the best developments are represented by specialized manufacturers of fasteners and automotive tools. In this sense, we can distinguish the company Jonnesway, JTC and AIST. Also a good premium kit is presented by FORCE. Modification 62511 withstands a 5-ton load and can be used in chain-locking circuits with bolted connections. As users note, this clamp is characterized by high strength and durability. Presented on the market and the domestic body clamp from the companies "Sorokin" and "Mastak." Such models are less technological and functional, but are optimally suited for simple straightening works with car bodies.

How much does the clamp cost?

Models with a pulling force of about 2 tons are available for 1.5-2 thousand rubles. These are unidirectional devices that are of minimal equipment and are made of inexpensive metal alloys. In the middle segment there are already bidirectional mechanisms suitable for use with loads of about 3 tons. Such an instrument is available on average for 2-3 thousand. The most durable clamps for body repair with three directions of action are estimated at 6-7 thousand. Models of this type in Mainly used in professional workshops, specializing in the correction of complex body deformations.

How to choose the best model?

Start the selection with the configuration of the installation of the future mechanism. The standard scheme assumes the use of a universal set of 4 grips. This option is suitable for most cars, and in this case it remains only to estimate the possible traction potential according to the characteristics described above. But for certain modifications of cars may require a body clamp, supplemented by a special fastening system. In particular, some models of Mercedes and BMW require the connection of additional clamps intended for connection with pins mounted on the side of the body. Have their own features and systems of fixing Honda. And for machines with transverse beams it is necessary to use the mechanisms of clamps with balancers.

Conclusion

Regardless of the nature of the operation, it is necessary to check the condition of the clamp before each application. Even if the surfaces of metal parts look ready for use, it will be necessary to evaluate the efficiency of the working function. Especially screw clamps and clamps for bodywork with thread are prone to deformation, which can lead to a risk of breaking the rectification technique. Maintenance is also performed after the completion of the work event. In this case, you may need the same autochemistry, which you need to lubricate the surface of the instrument. The presence of a protective coating will prevent parts from breaking down the structure. However, it is desirable to initially purchase devices that have factory zinc. This coating protects not only from corrosion processes, but also reduces the internal stress of the metal.