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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 thesaepvcsae

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
  1. Cut a shaving of plastic from the back of the part.

    The shaving should be free of mold release agents and paint.

  2. 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:

Tire Rotation
Tires should be rotated every 12 000 km (7,500 mi). See Maintenance Schedule. Tires are rotated to achieve a uniform wear for all tires. The first rotation is the most important. Anytime unusual wear is noticed, rotate the tires as soon as possible, check for proper tire inflation pressure, an ...

Environmental Fallout (Acid Rain)
Caution: Refer to Clearcoat/Ultraviolet Screeners Caution. Note: Always refer to the manufacturer's packaged instructions for the detailed procedures of materials used for compounding and/or polishing. Since the severity of the condition varies from area to area, proper diagno ...

Outside Mirror Description and Operation
Power Mirror System Components The power mirror system consists of the following components: Outside rearview mirror switch Mirror selector switch Driver outside rearview mirror Passenger outside rearview mirror Each of the outside rearview mirror contains two motors. Th ...

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