Protection Of The Vehicle
Protect affected areas from weld spatter and dust during all welding and grinding work on the vehicle. If metallic dust stays on the vehicle for some time, there is the likelihood of film rust formation. Grinding produces tiny spots of damage to the paint surface, which may cause corrosion. Also use suitable protective measures to protect the interior when performing repair operations which relate to the inside of the vehicle.
For this reason, make sure to:
- Use carbon fiber blankets to protect the vehicle body and the interior.
- Use covering film to protect the vehicle body from grinding dust and metal dust.
- Use covering paper to protect the interior from grinding dust.
In addition, take into account:
- Remove fuel supply components as necessary.
- Protect working areas which are in danger of catching fire with a fireproof blanket.
- Keep heat away from all components of the air conditioning system.
- Remove all components in the space adjoining the repair area.
Electronic components
Increased use of comfort and safety electronics in modern vehicles requires additional attention to be paid during body work.
Over voltages produced during welding can cause electronic systems to be damaged. In particular, the safety instructions for performing welding work on vehicles with airbag systems must be adhered to.
Refer to Driver Air Bag Module information.
Refer to Passenger Air Bag Module information.
Refer to Side Air Bag Module information.
Refer to Restraints Control Module (RCM) information.
Pay attention to the following points:
- Disconnect the battery negative clamp and cover the battery terminal.
- Disconnect the electrical connector at the airbag control module.
- If welding is to be performed directly near a control module, it must be disconnected or removed.
- Never connect the negative cable of the welder near an airbag or a control module.
- Connect the negative cable of the welder close to the location of the weld.