Nissan Altima L32. Manual - part 160

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PRECAUTIONS IN REPAIRING HIGH STRENGTH STEEL

PRECAUTIONS IN REPAIRING HIGH STRENGTH STEEL

High Strength Steel (HSS)

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High strength steel is used for body panels in order to reduce vehicle weight.

Accordingly, precautions in repairing automotive bodies made of high strength steel are described below:

SP130 is the most commonly used HSS.
Read the following precautions when repairing HSS:

1. Additional points to consider

• The repair of reinforcements (such as side members) by heat-

ing is not recommended since it may weaken the component.

When heating is unavoidable, do not heat HSS parts above

550

°C (1,022°F).

Verify heating temperature with a thermometer.

(Crayon-type and other similar type thermometer are appropri-

ate.)

• When straightening body panels, use caution in pulling any

HSS panel. Because HSS is very strong, pulling may cause

deformation in adjacent portions of the body. In this case,

increase the number of measuring points, and carefully pull

the HSS panel.

• When cutting HSS panels, avoid gas (torch) cutting if possible.

Instead, use a saw to avoid weakening surrounding areas due

to heat. If gas (torch) cutting is unavoidable, allow a minimum

margin of 50 mm (1.97in).

Tensile strength

Nissan/Infiniti designation

Major applicable parts

373 N/mm

2

(38kg/mm

2

,54klb/sq in)

SP130

• Front side member assembly 
• Hoodledge assembly
• Upper dash
• Front pillar reinforcement assembly
• Rear side member assembly
• Other reinforcements

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PRECAUTIONS IN REPAIRING HIGH STRENGTH STEEL

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• When welding HSS panels, use spot welding whenever possi-

ble in order to minimize weakening surrounding areas due to

heat.

If spot welding is impossible, use M.I.G. welding. Do not use

gas (torch) welding because it is inferior in welding strength.

• The spot weld on HSS panels is harder than that of an ordi-

nary steel panel.

Therefore, when cutting spot welds on a HSS panel, use a low

speed high torque drill (1,000 to 1,200 rpm) to increase drill bit

durability and facilitate the operation.

2. Precautions in spot welding HSS

This work should be performed under standard working condi-

tions. Always note the following when spot welding HSS:

• The electrode tip diameter must be sized properly according to

the metal thickness.

• The panel surfaces must fit flush to each other, leaving no

gaps.

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PRECAUTIONS IN REPAIRING HIGH STRENGTH STEEL

• Follow the specifications for the proper welding pitch.

Unit:mm

Thickness (t)

Minimum pitch (l)

0.6 (0.024)
0.8 (0.031)
1.0 (0.039)
1.2 (0.047)
1.6 (0.063)
1.8 (0.071)

10 (0.39) or over
12 (0.47) or over
18 (0.71) or over
20 (0.79) or over
27 (1.06) or over
31 (1.22) or over

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REPLACEMENT OPERATIONS

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REPLACEMENT OPERATIONS

Description

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This section is prepared for technicians who have attained a high level of skill and experience in repairing col-

lision-damaged vehicles and also use modern service tools and equipment. Persons unfamiliar with body

repair techniques should not attempt to repair collision-damaged vehicles by using this section.

Technicians are also encouraged to read Body Repair Manual (Fundamentals) in order to ensure that the orig-

inal functions and quality of the vehicle can be maintained. The Body Repair Manual (Fundamentals) contains

additional information, including cautions and warning, that are not including in this manual. Technicians

should refer to both manuals to ensure proper repairs.

Please note that these information are prepared for worldwide usage, and as such, certain procedures might

not apply in some regions or countries.