Chevrolet Cruze Repair Manual: How To Indentify Plastic Parts

Chevrolet Cruze Repair Manual / Body repair / Plastic Panel Information and Repair / How To Indentify Plastic Parts

Plastic parts can be identified by the SAE code, which is usually found on

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.

Plastic Identification and Refinishing Systems

Body systems

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, o ...

Body systems

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Other materials:

Front Suspension
Specifications Front Suspension Components Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Front Stabilizer Shaft Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Rear Insulator Front Stabilizer Shaft Link Front Suspension Strut Insulator Assembly Front Spring Shock Absorber Assembly Front Whe ...

Symptoms - Squeaks and Rattles
Table 1: Rattle Coming From the Side Rail Table 2: Rattle Under Vehicle at Higher RPM Table 3: Thump From Rear of Vehicle on Bumps Table 4: Glass Knock Coming From the Rear of the Vehicle When Driving Over Bumps Table 5: Rattle Coming From Door Table 6: Squeak When Operating Doors Table 7: S ...

Rear Seats
Either side of the rear seatback can be folded. To fold the rear seatbacks: 1. Place the front seatbacks in the upright position. Notice: Folding a rear seat with the safety belts still fastened may cause damage to the seat or the safety belts. Always unbuckle the safety belts and return them ...