Replacing the central pillar
- Make
- Fiat
- Model
- Punto (176) Factory Service Manual
- Year
- 1993–1999
- Section
- Structural sheet metal parts replacement › Replacing the central pillar
REPLACING THE CENTRAL PILLAR
The part for which the procedure is given is shown in the diagram to the left.
Preliminary procedures
Establish the gravity of the damage and check the body squaring values (given in the manual) with a suitable tool (reference bench, surface or other gauges or jig). If necessary straighten the body before cutting the part in question.
After this operation check the integrity of the parts which will not be replaced.
Preliminary disassembly
- Dismantle the mobile bodywork parts, internal trim and any electrical and mechanical components which could hinder the repair operations or get damaged during work.
Removal
- Using a pneumatic saw cut along the dashed lines shown in the diagram below leaving enough to overlap with the new part.
- The cross-sections of the sheet metal in the most significant points are given so that the operator can adjust the position and cutting depth to avoid damaging the underlying sheet metal.
- Using a rotating brush, clean the areas to be chamfered to show up the welds.
- Reduce the welds using a spot cutter.
- Reduce the welds shown, using a pneumatic drill.
When carrying out the operations described, the safety regulations should always be followed. Wear protective shoes, ear protection and gloves during cutting operations, welding mask and gloves when welding, protective mask and gloves when painting.
Parts & tools for this job For 1993 Fiat Punto
- TOOLTrim removal tool kitSearch: trim removal tool kit
- PARTTouch-up paintSearch: Fiat touch up paint
- PARTPanel clip assortmentSearch: Fiat panel clips assortment
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