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We are often asked, “Can I section this panel?” Let’s take a look at Ford/Lincoln vehicles and sectioning the rocker panel reinforcement.
The Ford/Lincoln vehicle-specific Rocker Panel Inner Reinforcement procedure details the removal and installation of the entire rocker panel reinforcement. No cut lines are called out. So, where do I section?
Per vehicle-specific Workshop manuals:
- "Body side sectioning is prohibited within 50 mm of door hinge, door striker and restraints anchoring points."
- "The rocker panel reinforcement may be sectioned at any point providing restraints, door hinge and door striker restrictions are met. Adjust sectioning point to meet repair requirements."
- For the F-Series SuperCrew Cab: "The front portion is an extrusion casting and may not be sectioned."
The Workshop manual also refers you to the Joining Techniques document. In this document, Ford/Lincoln details the approved sectioning joint type.
These statements and documents apply to the following models:
- 2015-present Ford F-150
- 2018-present Ford Super Duty
- 2018-present Ford Expedition
- 2024-present Ford Ranger
- 2018-present Lincoln Navigator
Always be sure to reference the vehicle-specific Workshop manuals before performing any repairs.
Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:
- I-CAR Repairers Realm: Ford Structural Sectioning Guidelines - Now Available
- OEM Linking Pin: Ford/Lincoln Passenger Compartment Reinforcement Sectioning
- Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2019 Ford F-150
- Step-By-Step: Accessing Ford/Lincoln Repair Information
- Structural Sectioning Procedures: Ford/Lincoln
