Buick Encore: Plastic Panel Information and Repair - Description and operation
HOW TO IDENTIFY PLASTIC PARTS
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Fig. 1: Identifying SAE Code
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 nonpolyolefin.
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
Plastic Identification and Refinishing Systems
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Specifications
DIMENSIONS - BODY (ENCORE)
Point-to-point measurements are for reference only. All measurements are
given in millimeters. Use these
measurements for diagnosing and estimating. Point-to-point measurem
Collision Repair - Visual identification
STRUCTURE IDENTIFICATION
Fig. 13: Front Structure
View Front
Fig. 14: Rear Structure
View Rear
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When the vehicle needs windshield
washer fluid, be sure to read the
manufacturer's instructions before
use. If operating the vehicle in an
area where the temperature may fall
below freezing, use a fluid that has
sufficient protection against
freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
Open the cap wit
Automatic Reversal System
Override
Warning
If automatic reversal system
override is active, the window will
not reverse automatically. You or
others could be injured and the
window could be damaged.
Before using automatic reversal system override, make sure that
all people and obstructions are
clear of the window path.
When the engi
