Prepare A-pillar outer section for installation - AR63.20-P-1102-02CW

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz C300, 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300, and 2008 Mercedes-Benz C300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The following operation steps are shown on model 204.0.

Scribe separation line on A-pillar outer paneling (1) (area A).
Transfer separation line on A-pillar outer paneling (1) from vehicle (area A).
Cut outer A-pillar paneling (1) at separation point (area A).
Punch Ø 7 mm holes on A-pillar outer paneling (1) (areas B and C).

Fig 1: Identifying A-Pillar Outer Paneling Punching Area & Separation Point
Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ USA

When replacing upper front longitudinal member, areas (B, C) are no longer required, because the joints are completed according to the repair method for the upper front longitudinal member.
Grind mating surfaces down to bare metal on outer A-pillar paneling (1) in crosshatched areas.
Grind spot weld flanges down to bare metal on both sides.
Grind crosshatched areas down to bare metal on outer A-pillar paneling (1) around holes.
Coat insides of spot weld flanges with zinc dust paint.
Scribe separation lines on A-pillar reinforcement (2) (areas D and E).
When replacing inner A-pillar, area (E) is no longer required, because the joints are completed according to the repair method for the inner A-pillar.

Transfer separation lines on A-pillar reinforcement (2) from vehicle (areas D and E).
Cut A-pillar reinforcement (2) at separation points (areas D and E).
Grind mating surfaces down to bare metal on A-pillar reinforcement (2) in crosshatched areas.

Fig 2: Identifying A-Pillar Reinforcement Grinding Areas
Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ USA

Grind spot weld flanges down to bare metal on both sides.
Coat insides of spot weld flanges with zinc dust paint.