When sectioning the door frame opening in areas where there is no inner reinforcement, a 100 mm (4 in) backing plate must be used behind the joint to ensure a solid and secure weld. Backing plates can be cut from the unused portion of the door frame opening service part. The specific areas to be sectioned are determined by the extent of damage to the vehicle.

Important: Sectioning should take place only in recommended areas. Failure to do so may compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle.

Important: This procedure does not apply to the front hinge pillar. See front hinge pillar sectioning procedures.

1. Remove all related panels and components.
2. Visually inspect and restore as much of the damage as possible to factory specifications.
3. Note the location and remove the following as necessary:

•

Sealers.

•	Sound deadeners.

•	Anti-corrosion materials.

4. Measure and compare the service part with the damaged part to choose the areas where sectioning can best be performed.



5. Cut the door frame opening where sectioning is to be performed. Do not damage the inner panels or reinforcements.
6. Locate, mark, and drill out all factory welds. Note the number and location of welds for installation of the service part.
7. Remove the damaged area of the door frame opening.

1. On the service part, mark a horizontal line to leave a gap of one and one-half times the thickness of the metal at the sectioning joint.
2. Cut the outer door frame opening service part along this line.
3. Cut a 100 mm (4 in) piece from the unused portion of the service part for a backing plate.
4. Remove the flange on each side of the backing plate so that it will fit behind the sectioning joint.
5. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) holes for plug welding in the service part in locations noted from the original panel.
6. Drill holes for plug welding along the sectioning cuts on both the service part and the original panel.
7. Locate these holes approximately 25 m (1 in) from the edge of the sectioning cuts.



8. Prepare mating surfaces and position the backing plates with 50 mm (2 in) of the backing plate exposed, and plug weld.
9. Position the service part to overlap the exposed 50 mm (2 in) of the backing plate.
10. Use three-dimensional measuring equipment to check fit.
11. Plug weld accordingly.
12. Stitch weld along the sectioning joint.
13. Make 25 mm (1 in) welds along the seam with 25 mm (1 in) gaps between.
14. Go back and complete the stitch weld. This will create a solid joint with minimal heat distortion.
15. Clean and prepare welded surfaces.
16. Prime with two-part catalyzed primer.



17. Install the following in the service door frame (2) opening as noted from the removal procedure:

•

Sealers.

•	Sound deadeners.

•	Foam baffles (1).

18. Apply anti-corrosion materials as necessary. Do not combine paint systems.
19. Refer to paint manufacturers recommendations.
20. Install all related panels and components.