GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 686636  Size: SH
  1. Remove all related panels and components.
  2. Restore as much of the damage as possible to factory specifications.
  3. Note the location and remove the following as necessary:
  4. • Anti-corrosion materials
    • Sound deadeners (1)
    • Sealers

    Object Number: 687060  Size: SH

    Important: Do not damage any inner panels or reinforcements.

  5. Cut the panel where sectioning is to be performed.

  6. Object Number: 687067  Size: SH
  7. Locate and drill out all factory welds. Note the number and location of welds for installation of the service part.

  8. Object Number: 687070  Size: SH
  9. Remove the damaged rear lock pillar.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 687073  Size: SH
  1. Cut the replacement rear lock pillar in corresponding locations to fit the remaining original panel. The sectioning joint should be trimmed to allow a gap of one-and-one-half times the metal (1) thickness at the sectioning joint.

  2. Object Number: 687076  Size: SH
  3. In the rear lock pillar, create a 50 mm (2 in) backing plate (1) from the unused portion of the door frame opening panel. Trim the backing plate as necessary to fit behind the sectioning joint.
  4. In the rocker locations, create a 100 mm (4 in) backing plate (2) from the unused portion of the door frame opening. Trim the backing plate as necessary to fit behind the sectioning joint.

  5. Object Number: 687077  Size: SH
  6. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes along the sectioning cut on the remaining original part.

    Important: In any area damaged beyond recognition, space plug weld holes every 40 mm (1 ½ in) apart.

  7. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes as necessary in locations noted from the original panel and along the sectioning cut.

  8. Object Number: 687079  Size: SH
  9. Prepare all attachment surfaces as necessary.
  10. Apply weld-thru primer to all bare-metal surfaces.
  11. Fit the backing plate (1) halfway into the sectioning joint (2) clamp and plug weld to the vehicle (3).
  12. Align the rear lock pillar using three-dimensional measuring equipment.
  13. Plug weld accordingly.

  14. Object Number: 687081  Size: SH
  15. To create a solid weld with minimum heat distortion, make 25 mm (1 in) stitch welds along the seam with 25 mm (1 in) gaps between them. Then go back and complete the stitch weld.
  16. Important: Prior to refinishing, refer to publication GM 4901M-D-2000 GM Approved Refinish Materials for recommended products. Do not combine paint systems. Refer to paint manufacturer's recommendations.

  17. Clean and prepare all welded surfaces.

  18. Object Number: 686636  Size: SH
  19. Apply the following as necessary:
  20. • Anti-corrosion materials
    • Sound deadeners (1)
    • Sealers
  21. Install all related panels and components.