Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual: How to Identify Plastic Parts
Plastic parts can be identified by the SAE code, which is usually found on the rear of the part, and/or by the characteristics of the plastic. Knowing the type of plastic aids in selecting the proper repair materials and in selecting the proper repair procedure.
Look for the SAE code stamped into the part.
- Code Found
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Match the code to those in the plastic identification chart to determine whether the plastic is thermoplastic or thermoset plastic, and whether the plastic is rigid or flexible. Refer to Plastic Identification and Refinishing Systems.
- No Code Found
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Warning:
Do NOT use a plastic burn test to distinguish the type of plastic. The burn test produces vapors which are harmful.
Perform one or both of the following tests to determine if the part is thermoplastic polyolefin or thermoset non-polyolefin.
- Float Test
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- Cut a shaving of plastic from the back of the part.
The shaving should be free of mold release agents and paint.
- Place the shaving in a container of water.
- Thermoplastic polyolefin floats.
- Thermoset non-polyolefin sinks.
- Cut a shaving of plastic from the back of the part.
- Abrasion Test
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- Sand a spot near the damaged area with Grade?€‰36 Roloc Disc.
- Thermoplastic polyolefin material melts or frays when sanded.
- Thermoset non-polyolefin material sands cleanly.
Thermoplastic and thermoset plastics can be either rigid or flexible. Thermoplastic plastic parts are best repaired with a hot iron plastic material-feed welder, but are usually replaced. Thermoset plastic can be repaired with epoxy or other more rigid 2 package repair material.
For general repair instructions, refer to General Plastic Repair.
General Plastic Repair
Warning: In order to reduce the risk of personal injury when exposed
to toxic fumes while grinding, cutting, or applying repair material on any type
of sheet molded compound or RIM rigid plas ...
Plastic Collar Quick Connect Fitting Service
Removal Procedure
Warning: Refer to Gasoline/Gasoline Vapors Warning.
Note: There are several types of plastic collar fuel and evaporative
emission quick conne ...
Other materials:
Low Fuel Warning Light
This light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is turned on as a check
to indicate it is working. If it does not come on, have it fixed.
This light comes on when the vehicle is low on fuel.
The low fuel warning light comes on when there are approximately 6.0 L (1.7 gal)
of fuel rema ...
Vehicle Messages
DIC messages display when the status of the vehicle has changed and action may
be needed to correct the condition. Multiple messages appear one after another.
Press any of the DIC buttons on the turn signal lever to acknowledge and clear
them from the display. More urgent messages cannot be cle ...
Use of Room Temperature Vulcanizing (RTV) and Anaerobic Sealant
Pipe Joint Compound
Note: Three types of sealer are commonly used in engines. These
are RTV sealer, anaerobic gasket eliminator sealer, and pipe joint compound.
The correct sealer and amount must be used in the proper location to prevent
oil leaks. DO NOT interchange the 3&# ...
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