DEG inquiry leads to I-CAR RTS technical guidance
A recent Data Enhancement Gateway (DEG) inquiry set off a chain reaction, ultimately resulting in the I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (RTS) team’s development of comprehensive, industry-wide technical guidance, according to a DEG post.
An August DEG Inquiry, 41799, flagged missing labor operations, critical non-reusable hardware, and template requirements when replacing Ford and Lincoln door shells, the post states.
The inquiry sparked a review that ended with MOTOR Information Systems updating its collision database in CCC ONE to reflect necessary procedures.
This included adding a dedicated labor operation. The operation “Add if Required, drill for impact sensor” was added under the “Front Door” group headnotes, the DEG post says. It was established with an estimated work time of 0.5 hours.
Required fasteners were also added in the “Restraint Systems” group (Modules and Sensors), the post states. This includes adding the side impact sensor screw (W718492S439) and nut (W715150S900) to the parts catalog.
Clear footnotes were also added that state, “PARTS: Part cannot be reused/reinstalled.” DEG notes that this ensures proper parts procurement and safety compliance during initial repair planning.
“With the database corrected, the issue was then escalated to the I-CAR RTS team to address the underlying procedural and safety implications of modifying restraint sensor mounts,” DEG’s post states.
Via its OEM Linking Pin initiative, I-CAR engaged with Ford/Lincoln engineering to clarify factory requirements, the post adds.
I-CAR followed by publishing the technical article: “OEM Linking Pin: Ford/Lincoln Service Part – Door Modifications.”
“Our contact at Ford/Lincoln confirmed that modifications may be required for the replacement of the front and rear doors on the 2018-2024 Lincoln Navigator and 2018-2027 Ford Expedition,” I-CAR’s article states.
Modifications require drilling holes or slots to install outer trim or other parts, such as the airbag impact sensor, I-CAR says.
“Instructions for the required modifications to the door shell and the drilling template should be included with the purchase of a new OEM door,” I-CAR writes. “If instructions are not included, be sure to reach out to the dealer where it was purchased.”
Ford/Lincoln also identified specific consumables (including 3M Venture Tape 15181A) and new OEM replacement fasteners as mandatory for proper restraint system operation, DEG states in its post.
The DEG adds that repair planners and technicians should never assume a replacement door shell is pre-drilled. The restraint sensor mounting area should be inspected immediately when unboxing the part.
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Photo of I-CAR RTS guidance/I-CAR