Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
41 00... Welding In Reinforcement Plate (Steel Plate)
In the case of a partial replacement piece, a body component is cut at a point described in the repair instructions.
A reinforcement plate is welded in to ensure sufficient strength.
Follow notes for welding steel parts . Refer to 41 00... Welding And Soldering Steel Parts
Mark component in accordance with distance A and cut.
Cut new part (1) in accordance with cut and if necessary adjust to fit with straightening attachment or universal mount.
Installation:
Adhere to a gap at severance cut of approx. one to max. two material thicknesses in order to ensure welding with the reinforcement plate and to facilitate a more tolerant fit.
Clean inner and outer sides of connecting areas (1) on new part and (2) on body.
Coat inner sides with welding primer.
Drill holes (1) and (2) at distance of 25 mm to each other.
Hole diameter approx. 8 mm.
Make reinforcement plate (1) from trim of new part.
If necessary, make further reinforcement plates.
Length of reinforcement plates is min. 40 mm.
Coat reinforcement plates (1) and (2) on both sides with welding primer.
Push reinforcement plate (1) into component on body up to half way and plug-weld (3).
If necessary, adjust new part (1) to fit with straightening attachment or universal mount and plug-weld (2).
MAG weld joint (3).
Grind and clean weld seam and plug weld spots.
Only visible areas of the outer skin and worn areas on the support carrier must be tinned.
All areas which have covers on the vehicle are not to be tinned.
European used-car regulations prohibit the use of tin containing lead in motor vehicles introduced after 01.07.2003!
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.