Center Pillar Sectioning Reinforcement

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. Note the location and 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. Cut the panel 135 mm lower than the center pillar outer sectioning location.

Important: Do not damage any inner panels or reinforcements.

7. Locate and drill out all factory welds. Note the number and location of the welds for installation of the center pillar reinforcement.
8. Remove the damaged center pillar reinforcement.

1. Cut the replacement service part 25 mm longer than the original panel that was removed from the vehicle.

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.

Some panels may have structural weld-thru adhesive. It is necessary to replace the weld-thru adhesive with an additional spot weld between each factory spot weld.
2. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes in the service part as necessary in the locations noted from the original panel.
3. Prepare all mating surfaces as necessary.
4. Apply 3M Weld-Thru Coating P/N 05916 or equivalent to all mating surfaces.
5. Slide the replacement service part behind the original panel at the sectioning joint.
6. Position the center pillar reinforcement to the vehicle using 3-dimensional measuring equipment. Clamp the center pillar reinforcement into place.
7. Plug weld accordingly. To create a solid weld with minimum heat distortion at the sectioning joint, make 25 mm (1 in) welds with 25 mm (1 in) gaps between them. Then go back and complete the stitch.
8. Clean and prepare all welded surfaces.
9. Apply the sealers and anti-corrosion materials to the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair in Paint and Coatings.
10. Paint the repair area. Refer to Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems in Paint and Coatings.
11. Install all related panels and components.
12. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.
13. Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling in SIR.