Chevrolet Cruze Repair Manual: 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 plastic, observe the following
guidelines:
- Work in a properly ventilated area
- Apply protective cream to any exposed skin
- Remove any mixture that comes into contact with skin
- Wash skin with cold water to remove glass and resin dust
- Use a sander with a vacuum attachment
- Follow the repair material manufacturer's instructions
Also, always wear the following:
- An approved respirator, or air supplied respirator
- Eye protection
- Rubber gloves
- Earplugs
- Protective clothing
The following procedures should be followed when repairing all types of
thermoset plastic:
- Follow the manufacturer's application and curing recommendations
- Do not intermix systems. Use the supplies and the repair materials from
the same manufacturer.
- Clean the inner and outer surfaces of the repair area with a soap
impregnated scouring pad in order to remove any dirt or mold
release agent.
- Clean the area with a wax and grease remover, using only enough of the
remover to dampen a cloth. Allow the panel to dry
thoroughly.
- Remove the surface finish from the area to be repaired. Adhesives are
designed to adhere to the plastic substrate, not the finish.
- Prime a metal surface before applying the repair material.
- Inspect the rear side of the work area before making repairs in order to
avoid possible damage to wires, motors, etc.
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 th ...
Other materials:
Exterior Care
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish, wash it often and out of direct sunlight.
Notice: Do not use petroleum-based, acidic, or abrasive cleaning agents
as they can damage the vehicle's paint, metal, or plastic parts.
If damage occurs, it would not be covered by the vehic ...
Removal Procedure
Warning: Refer to Approved Equipment for Collision Repair Warning in the
Preface section.
Warning: Refer to Collision Sectioning Warning in the Preface section.
Warning: Refer to Glass and Sheet Metal Handling Warning in the Preface section.
Disable the SIR System. Refer to SIR Disabling ...
Removal Procedure
Warning: Refer to Approved Equipment for Collision Repair Warning in the
Preface section.
Warning: Refer to Glass and Sheet Metal Handling Warning in the Preface section.
Disable the SIR System. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling.
Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Bat ...