Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual: How to Identify Plastic Parts

Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual / Body / General / How to Identify Plastic Parts

Plastic parts can be identified by the SAE code, which is usually found on the saepvcsae

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: 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: 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

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.

Abrasion Test

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:

Rail Dust Damage Repair
Warning: Refer to Eye Protection Warning. Note: If rail dust has penetrated into the basecoat, the panel requires refinishing. Ensure all the rail dust has been removed prior to refinishing or the rust spots will return. Rail dust damage comes from the tiny iron particles produce ...

Valve Stem Oil Seal and Valve Spring Replacement
Special Tools 207649 Rod Hairpin Clips 547324 Flange Screws EN-840 Pliers / Remover EN-958 Installer EN-45059 Angle Meter EN-50717 Kit J-43649–2 Rods For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools. Removal Procedure Remove the spark plugs. Refer to Spa ...

Exhaust Rear Muffler Replacement (LUV,LUW)
Special Tools CH-6614 Chain Pipe Cutter For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools. Removal Procedure Warning: Refer to Exhaust Service Warning. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle. Cut the exhaust rear mu ...

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