Collision Repair Training | United States
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Current Events/News: Advantage Online: 2005 Archives
2006 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 LOWER PILLAR CASTING NOW AVAILABLE
March 20, 2006 - General Motors has developed a procedure for the replacement of the lower cast hinge pillar bracket on the aluminum-structured Chevrolet Corvette Z06 in the event that this part is damaged during a side-impact collision. The lower pillar is made from A356 cast aluminum and is welded to the frame rail and upper pillar extrusion (see Figure 1). After testing was completed by General Motors Service Parts Operations engineers, it was determined that the lower casting could be adequately repaired using pulsed GMA (MIG) welding. Parts The part numbers for pillar replacement include:
Welding When welding the casting to the frame and upper pillar, pulsed GMA (MIG) welding is recommended (see Figure 2). The welding electrode wire is 0.9 mm (0.035) 4043 electrode wire. Cracked welds between a casting and the frame that are less than 50 mm (2") long should be re-welded using 0.9 mm (0.035) 4043 electrode wire. When re-welding cracks, the complete cracked weld should be removed with a grinder before the seam is re-welded. Other procedures that require welding to the aluminum frame specify using 0.9 mm (0.035) 5356 electrode. This welding electrode should not be used for welding any damaged castings. As with any welding repair, practice welds should be made and visually inspected before welding on the vehicle. To help ensure the correct welder adjustments, make the practice welds on the damaged parts that were removed (see Figure 4). Following the welding, a dye penetrant test will help ensure that the weld is free from defects. Conclusion Before repairs are made to the aluminum-structured Chevrolet Corvette Z06, be sure to attend the I-CAR Live program Collision Repair Overview for the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (GEN01) and obtain the service information. Subscriptions to the General Motors electronic service information can be purchased at: www.acdelco.com Want to learn more? The following I-CAR Live program was mentioned in the above article: Visit the I-CAR home page at www.i-car.com, utilized the “Quick Search” function by entering your Zip/Postal Code, and find an I-CAR training program near you! Don’t see the program you want in your area? Simply complete a “class request form” at the bottom of the search results page.
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