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41 00... Welding In Reinforcement Plate (Sheet Steel)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW 550i GT, 2012 BMW 550i GT, 2011 BMW 550i GT, and 2010 BMW 550i GT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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 COMPONENTS .

NOTE: The following graphics serve as general illustrations of reinforcement plate repair work. They are applicable to all sectional repairs.

Mark component in accordance with dimension A and cut.

Fig 1: Identifying Reinforcement Plate Cutting Dimension
G08476119Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Cut new part (1) in accordance with cut and if necessary adjust to fit with alignment bracket or universal mount.

Installation note: 

Maintain a distance of approximately one to no more than two material thicknesses at the severance cut to ensure welding with the reinforcement metal and enable more tolerant adjustment.

Fig 2: Identifying Reinforcement Plate Cutting Position
G08476120Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Clean inner and outer sides of connection faces (1) on new part and (2) on body.

Coat insides with welding primer.

Fig 3: Identifying Inner And Outer Sides Of Connection Faces
G08476121Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Drill bore holes (1) and (2) at distance of 25 mm to each other.

Hole diameter approx. 8 mm.

Fig 4: Identifying Bore Holes Position On Reinforcement Plates
G08476122Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Make reinforcement plate (1) from trim of new part.

If applicable, produce more reinforcement plates.

Length of reinforcement plates is min. 40 mm.

Coat reinforcement plates (1) and (2) on both sides with welding primer.

Fig 5: Identifying Reinforcement Plate
G08476123Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Push reinforcement plate (1) into component on body up to half way and plug-weld (3).

Fig 6: Identifying Reinforcement Plate And Plug-Welds
G08476124Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If applicable, adjust the new part (1) with the alignment bracket or universal tool and plug-weld (2)

MAG weld the joint (3).

Grind and clean weld seam and plug weld spots.

Only visible areas of the outer skin and on the carrier support must be tinned.

All areas which have covers on the vehicle are not to be tinned.

Fig 7: Identifying Reinforcement Plate, Plug-Weld And MAG Weld Joint
G08476125Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
NOTE: Only applicable within the European Union!

European used-vehicle regulations prohibit the use of tin containing lead in motor vehicles introduced after 01.07.2003!