GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Cadillac 🢒 2009 🢒 CTS 🢒 Body Repair 🢒 Collision Repair 🢒 Underbody Rear Side Rail Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Warning: Refer to Approved Equipment for Collision Repair Warning in the Preface section.

  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling.
  2. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection.
  3. Remove all related panels and components.
  4. Repair as much of the damaged area as possible.
  5. Remove the sealers and anti-corrosion materials from the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair.

    6. Object Number: 1699790 Size: SH
  6. Locate and drill out all the necessary factory welds.

    7. Object Number: 1699791 Size: SH

    Note: Two hidden welds (A, B) are in the wheel house and rocker panel arms.

  7. Locate and note the areas with structural adhesive.
  8. Bend down the weld flange on the #5 bar.

    9. Object Number: 1699792 Size: SH
  9. Remove the rear rail.

Installation Procedure

    Note: If the location of the original plug weld holes can not be determined, space the plug weld holes every 40 mm (1½ in) apart.

  1. Drill 8-mm (5/16-in) plug weld holes in the service part as necessary in the locations noted from the original panel.
  2. Prepare all mating surfaces for welding as necessary.
  3. Apply Weld-Thru Coating to all mating surfaces. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair.

    4. Object Number: 1699792 Size: SH
  4. Position the rear rail to the vehicle using 3-dimensional measuring equipment. Clamp the rail in place.
  5. Install structural adhesive as noted during the Removal Procedure. Refer to Metal Panel Bonding.

    6. Object Number: 1699790 Size: SH
  6. Plug weld accordingly.
  7. Clean and prepare all of the welded surfaces.
  8. Install all of the related panels and components.
  9. Apply the sealers and anti-corrosion materials to the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair.
  10. Paint the repaired area. Refer to Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems.
  11. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection.
  12. Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling.