Chevrolet Cruze Repair Manual: How To Indentify 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.
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
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
...
Other materials:
Deployment Outside Vehicle - Steering Wheel Module, Instrument Panel
Module, and Roof Rail Module
Deploy the inflator module outside of the vehicle when the vehicle will be
returned to service. Situations that require deployment outside
of the vehicle include the following:
Using the SIR diagnostics, you determine that the inflator module is
malfunctioning
The inflator module is cosm ...
Distracted Driving
Distraction comes in many forms and can take your focus from the task of driving.
Exercise good judgment and do not let other activities divert your attention away
from the road. Many local governments have enacted laws regarding driver distraction.
Become familiar with the local laws in your ...
Installation Procedure
Position the front end upper tie bar (1) on the vehicle.
Verify the fit of the front end upper tie bar.
Clamp the front end upper tie bar into position.
Weld seam accordingly.
Weld seam accordingly.
Grind down weld seams as needed for related panels and components.
...
