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:
Questions and Answers About Safety Belts
Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle after a crash if I am wearing a safety belt?
A: You could be— whether you are wearing a safety belt or not. Your chance of being
conscious during and after a crash, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater
if you are belted.
Q: If my vehicle has ai ...
Full-Cut Method Description
Note:
If corrosion of the pinch-weld flange is present, or if sheet metal
repairs or replacements are required, refinish the pinch-weld flange in
order to present a clean, primer-only surface.
If paint repairs are required, mask the flange bonding area, prior to
applying th ...
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Description and Operation
The automatic transmission park lock control system is a safety device that prevents
an inadvertent shift out of PARK. The driver must press the brake pedal before moving
the park lever out of the PARK position. The system consists of the following components:
The automatic transmission pa ...
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