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
-
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.
- Cut a shaving of plastic from the back of the part.
- 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
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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
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Other materials:
Center Pillar Reinforcement Replacement
Removal Procedure
Warning: Refer to Approved Equipment for Collision Repair
Warning.
Warning: Refer to Glass and Sheet Metal Handling Warning.
Note: The center pillar upper stiffener is made of Dual Phase
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Liftgate Trim Finish Panel Replacement (Hatchback)
Liftgate Trim Finish Panel Replacement
Callout
Component Name
1
Liftgate Trim Finish Panel Fastener
Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution.
2
Liftgate Trim Finish Panel Retainer (Qty: ...
Electronic Park Lock Description and Operation
If the vehicle is equipped with automatic transmission and a floor mounted console
gear shift, it has an electronic park lock system (EPL). The EPL system purpose
is to prevent the ignition key from being turned to the OFF position when the transmission
is in any position other than PARK and t ...
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