Chevrolet Cruze Repair Manual: Installation Procedure

- Cut the rocker outer panel in corresponding locations to fit the
remaining original panel. The sectioning joint should be trimmed to
allow a gap of one-and-one-half-times the metal thickness at the sectioning
joint.
- Create a 50 mm (2 in) backing plate from the unused portion of the
service part.
- Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) along the sectioning cut on the remaining original
part. Locate these holes 13 mm (1/2 in) from the edge of part
and spaced 40 mm (1½ in) apart.
- Prepare all mating surfaces as necessary.
- Fit the backing plates halfway into the sectioning joints, clamp in
place and plug weld to the vehicle.
- Align the rocker outer panel.

- Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) for plug welding along the edges of the rocker
outer panel as noted from the original panel.
- Clean and prepare the attaching surfaces for welding.

- Position the rocker outer panel on the
vehicle.
- Verify the fit of the rocker outer panel.
- Clamp the rocker outer panel into position.

- Plug weld accordingly.
- To create a solid weld with minimum heat distortion, make 25 mm (1 in)
stitch welds along the seam with 25 mm (1 in) gaps
between them. Then go back and complete the stitch weld.
- Apply the sealers and anti-corrosion materials to the repair area, as
necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair.
- Paint the repaired area. Refer to Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems.
- Install all related panels and components.
- Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable
Disconnection and Connection.
- Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling.
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 She ...
Note: According to different corrosion warranties, only the
regional mandatory joining methods are allowed. ...
Other materials:
Installation Procedure
Cut the front compartment front rail in corresponding locations to fit
the remaining original panel. The sectioning joint should be
trimmed to allow a gap of one-and-one-half-times the metal thickness at the
sectioning joint.
Create a 50 mm (2 in) backing plate from the unused porti ...
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 ...
Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems
Warning: Exposure to isocyanates during paint preparation and
application processes can cause severe breathing problems. Read and
follow all of the instructions from the manufacturers of painting materials,
equipment, and protective gear.
All paint finish repairs of rigid exterior surfaces mus ...