Center Pillar Replacement Reinforcements

Important: Locate all of the factory welds when replacing the outer panel. Some of these welds are located beneath the windshield pillar.

1. Remove all of the related components and panels.
2. Locate, mark, and drill out all of the factory welds.



3. Depress and remove the hinge bolts.

Use an appropriate tool in order to remove the welds located beneath the windshield pillar (1).

4. Remove the outer panel.
5. Locate, mark and drill out all of the factory welds on the damaged reinforcement panels.
6. Remove the damaged reinforcement panels.

1. Temporarily install the following components:

•	The new reinforcement panels

•	The outer panel

2. Locate and mark the hinge bolt hole positions using the body dimensions.
3. Drill 13 mm (1/2 in) bolt holes through the following components:

•	The outer panel

•	The reinforcement panels

4. Remove the following components:

•	The outer panel

•	The reinforcement panels

5. Tack weld the hinge bolts in the 4 locations on the back side of the reinforcement panels.
6. Enlarge the bolt holes in the outer panel using a 15 mm (9/16 in) drill.
7. Position the reinforcement panels.
8. Inspect for proper alignment using body dimensions.
9. Clamp the panel to the vehicle.



10. Weld the panel in the 4 locations on the backside of the reinforcement panel.



11. Properly position and install the outer panel.

Use the appropriate welds.

12. Clean and prepare the welded surfaces.

Important: Prior to refinishing, refer to GM 4901MD-99 Refinish Manual for recommended products. Do not combine paint systems. Refer to paint manufacturer's recommendations. For further information or to order Manual, call 1-800-269-5100.

13. Prime the surfaces using a 2-part catalyzed primer.
14. Apply sealers and corrosion protection materials as needed.

Important: 

•	When reinstalling related panels and components, refer to the appropriate section of the service manual for the component fastener tightening specifications.

•	Fasten all of the components to the proper tightening specifications.

15. Reinstall all of the related panels and components.