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:

Cargo Cover (Hatchback)
Warning: An unsecured cargo cover could strike people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash. Store the cargo cover securely or remove it from the vehicle. The cargo cover can be used to cover items in the rear of the vehicle. To remove the cargo cover: Remove both of the cords fr ...

Tires and Wheels Description and Operation (Tire Identification)
Identification Accessory and warranty replacement must use TPC spec tires. An outboard orientation stripe is added to the tread surface, with an offset toward the outboard tire face. All GM approved tires (Production, Service and Accessory) have a TPC (Tire Performance C ...

Evaporator Air Temperature Sensor Replacement (LHD)
Evaporator Air Temperature Sensor Replacement Callout Component Name 1 Evaporator Air Refrigerant Temperature Sensor Procedures Disconnect the refrigerant temperature sensor electrical connector. Twist a ...

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