Important: The hinge pillar inner reinforcement (1) can be used as backing plate when sectioning the outer door frame (2) at the front hinge pillar.

1. Remove all related panels and components.
2. Visually inspect and restore as much of the damage as possible to factory specifications.
3. Remove sealers and anti-corrosion materials as necessary.
4. Align template provided with the service part.
5. Mark and cut the hinge pillar for sectioning.

Important: Use care not to cut the inner panels and reinforcements when cutting the outer panels.

6. Perform all other sectioning procedures as necessary.
7. Locate, mark, and drill out all factory welds attaching the lower front door hinge pillar. Note the number and location of welds for installation of the service part.



8. Remove damaged front lower hinge pillar.
9. Remove foam (1) from the lower portion of the hinge pillar.

1. Rough cut the service part to match the damaged section of the door frame opening and discard the unused portion of the service part.
2. The modified service panel (1) should be trimmed to allow a gap of one and one-half times the metal thickness at the joint between the service part and the factory part.
3. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) holes for plug welding in the service part 13 mm (½ in) from the sectioning joint edge.
4. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) holes for plug (2) welding in the service panel (1) as necessary in the locations noted from the original panel.
5. Prepare mating surfaces as necessary.
6. Align the service part to the vehicle.
7. Use three-dimensional measuring equipment to check fit.
8. Plug weld accordingly.
9. Complete the sectioning by welding the joint gap closed with 25 mm (1 in) welds along the seam with 25 mm (1 in) gaps alternately.
10. Go back and complete the stitch weld. This will create a solid joint with minimal heat distortion.



11. Install closed cell two-part expandable foam in the service door frame opening hinge pillar as necessary to replace the original foam air baffle (1).
12. Clean and prepare welded surfaces.
13. Prime with two-part catalyzed primer.
14. Apply sealers and anti-corrosion materials as necessary. Do not combine paint systems.
15. Refer to paint manufacturers recommendations.
16. Install all related panels and components.