Chevrolet Equinox Service Manual: High Strength Low Alloy Steel

This information provides repair recommendations and generalguidelines for steel classified as High Strength Low Alloy Steel,also known as HSLA. This type of steel normally has a tensilestrength range from 300–700-MPa.

General Motors recommends the following when repairing orreplacing this type of steel during collision repair.

Recommended RepairsCold repairs can be performed on this type of steel, unlessthe damage includes kinks. If the damage includes kinks, the partshould be replaced.Controlled use of heat can be used to repair damage, if theheat does not exceed 650°C (1200°F). The heatshould be applied a maximum of 2-times, for up to90-seconds.Sectioning or partial replacement of this type of steel isrecommended only at approved locations, in a specific sectioningprocedure.This type of steel can be used as a sleeve, or backer plate,during sectioning procedures.Squeeze Resistance Spot Welding can be used to replacefactory spot welds, where applicable.MIG plug welding and MIG stitch welding can be used on thistype of steel.MIG Brazing can be used on this type of steel.