FixVault

Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Saab 9-7X. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
    Fig 1: Cut Replacement Service Part (Center Pillar)
    GM749660Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  1. Cut the replacement service part in corresponding locations to fit the remaining original panel. The sectioning joint should be trimmed to allow 11/2 times the metal thickness at the sectioning joint.
  2. Fig 2: Creating Backing Plate From Center Pillar Section
    GM749663Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  3. Create a 50 mm (2 in) (a) backing plate from the unused portion of the service part. Trim the backing plate as necessary to fit behind the sectioning joint.
  4. Fig 3: Perform Additional Sectioning Procedures (Center Pillar)
    GM749664Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  5. Perform additional sectioning procedures. Refer to Outer Windshield Frame Pillar Sectioning ,Rocker Outer Panel Sectioning , Body Lock Pillar Outer Panel Sectioning  and Rear Pillar Sectioning .
  6. Fig 4: Creating Backing Plates From Unused Portion Of Service Part
    GM749668Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  7. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes along the sectioning cut on the remaining original part. Locate these holes 13 mm (1/2 in) from the edge and spaced 40 mm (11/2 in) apart.
  8. Fig 5: Drilling Plug Weld Holes In Remaining Original Part
    GM749671Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
    IMPORTANT: In any area damaged beyond recognition, space the plug weld holes every 40 mm (11/2 in) apart.
  9. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes in the service part as necessary in the locations noted from the original panel and along the sectioning cut.
  10. Fig 6: Drilling Plug Weld Holes In Remaining Original Part
    GM749673Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  11. Prepare all of the attachment surfaces as necessary.
  12. Apply the weld-thru primer to all of the bare metal surfaces.
  13. Fit the backing plate halfway into the sectioning joint, clamp and plug weld to the vehicle.
  14. Fig 7: Installing Replacement Center Pillar
    GM749675Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  15. Position and align the center pillar to the adjacent panels using the three-dimensional measuring equipment.
  16. Plug weld accordingly.
  17. 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.
  18. Fig 8: Stitch Welding Replacement Center Pillar
    GM749679Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  19. Clean and prepare all of the welded surfaces.
  20. IMPORTANT: Prior to refinishing, refer to publication GM 4901M-2001 GM Approved Refinish Materials for recommended products. Do not combine the paint systems. Refer to the paint manufacturer's recommendation.
  21. Apply the following as necessary:
    • The sound deadening materials
    • An approved anti-corrosion primer
    • The sealers and refinish as necessary
  22. Install all of the related panels and components.