Universal dedicated fixed-point anchor

The universal dedicated fixed-point anchoring design has also been around for several years, again originating in Europe to meet the demands of OEMs. A few of the European manufacturers also require a specific bench manufacturer. In principle, there is not much difference between the dedicated fixture and the universal fixture methods. Both benches are similar in design while having the same pulling capabilities. Although the dedicated and universal bench methods are fundamentally the same, there is a basic difference between them. The two differ in their individual design of fixtures, with the universal fixture method being used on all models of vehicles, compared to the dedicated fixture method being limited to a specific model of vehicle. With the universal fixture method, the individual fixtures have to be assembled, with the technician following a vehicle model specific set of instructions.

    The set-up instructions are detailed and show the technician how to assemble each fixture from a numbered set of universal brackets and attachments that are supplied with each bench; these instructions are produced by the manufacturer following manufacturer’s blueprints. The fixture is mounted to the bench and to a known specific holding/measuring point, visually showing the technician the precise location of the datum height, length and width, as does the dedicated fixture design. Similarly with the dedicated fixture design, there can be as many as 14 fixtures attached to the underside of the vehicle, both anchoring and measuring simultaneously.

    Part 2 of the article will show some real life situations dealing with pulling and measuring and how misunderstandings can affect the total repair process.

    Toby Chess has more than 30 years of industry experience. Chess is an ASE Master Certified Technician, an Accredited Automotive Manager, an I-CAR instructor, the Los Angeles I-CAR Chairman, and a technical presenter for CIC.

    Recently deceased, March Taylor was a shop owner in Hawaii and had been active in the collision repair industry for many years, often working alongside Chess.