Within the center pillar reinforcement, there are two ultra high strength steel brackets (1). Due to this design, the center reinforcement is to be installed as an assembly. Sectioning or servicing the individual components could compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle.

Note: Section in specified areas only. Sectioning outside of these areas may compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle. The door frame can be replaced at factory seams, but requires the removal of the windshield and the roof. The sectioning procedures have been developed as a more cost-effective alternative to complete replacement. The specific area to be sectioned is determined by the extent of the damage to the vehicle.

1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection.
3. Remove all related panels and components.
4. Repair as much of the damage as possible to factory specifications. Refer to Dimensions - Body.

Warning: Foam sound deadeners must be removed from areas within 152.4 mm (6 in) of where flame is to be used for body repairs. When reinstalling foam sound deadeners, avoid inhaling fumes as bodily injury may result.

5. Note the location and remove the sealers and anti-corrosion materials from the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair.
6. Remove Body Side Center Pillar Section. Refer to Center Pillar Sectioning



7. Measure down 20 mm from bottom of reinforcement hole. Mark a horizontal line.



8. Cut the panel where sectioning is to be performed.



9. Drill out the factory welds to separate the B-pillar reinforcement from the body.



10. Remove the B-pillar reinforcement from the vehicle.

Note: If the location of the original plug weld holes can not be determined, space the plug weld holes every 40 mm (1 1/2 in) apart.

1. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes in the service part as necessary in locations noted from the original panel.
2. Prepare all mating surfaces as necessary.
3. Apply GM-approved Weld-Thru coating or equivalent to all mating surfaces. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair.



4. Position the service B-pillar reinforcement assembly to the vehicle using 3-dimensional measuring equipment. Clamp into place.



5. Plug weld accordingly.




Note: 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. Complete the stitch weld.

6. Stitch weld the sectioning joint.
7. Apply GM-approved Weld-Thru adhesive as needed. Clean the pillar surface. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair.
8. Complete Body Side Center Pillar Sectioning. Refer to Center Pillar Sectioning.
9. Clean and prepare all welded surfaces.
10. Apply the sealers and anti-corrosion materials to the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair.
11. Paint and repair the area. Refer to Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems.
12. Install all related panels and components.
13. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection.
14. Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling