GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Saturn 🢒 2005 🢒 ION 🢒 Body 🢒 Collision Repair 🢒 Front Compartment Upper Side Rail Replacement

Removal Procedure

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

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

    6. Object Number: 868721 Size: SH

    Important: Do not damage any inner panels or reinforcements.

  6. Locate and drill out all factory welds. Note the number and location of the welds for installation of the front upper rail.

    7. Object Number: 868722 Size: SH
  7. Remove the damaged front upper rail.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 868720 Size: SH

    Important: If the location of the original plug weld holes can not be determined, space the plug weld holes every 40 mm (1 1/2 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 as necessary.
  3. Apply 3M Weld-Thru Coating P/N 05916 or equivalent to all mating surfaces.

    4. Object Number: 868722 Size: SH
  4. Position the front upper rail on the vehicle using 3-dimensional measuring equipment. Clamp the rail in place.

    5. Object Number: 868721 Size: SH
  5. Plug weld accordingly.
  6. Clean and prepare all welded surfaces.
  7. Install all related panels and components.
  8. Apply the sealers and anti-corrosion materials to the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair in Paint and Coatings.
  9. Paint the repair area. Refer to Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems in Paint and Coatings.
  10. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.
  11. Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling in SIR.