Perform the replacement procedure if the following conditions are present:

•	The hinge bolts are damaged.

1. Remove all of the related components and panels.
2. When you remove the front hinge bolts, drill a 30 mm (1 3/16 in) access hole on the rearward surface of the inboard hinge pillar. Ensure that the hole is at the same datum height as the damaged bolts. Save the cut piece in order to reweld the piece in place later.

Ensure that the hole (1) does not overlap the corners of the hinge pillar.

On the Oldsmobile, remove the center pillar bolts through an access hole located behind the seat belt retractor.

3. Depress the damaged bolts through the mounting hole.
4. Remove the damaged bolts through the access hole using an extended magnet or another suitable tool.

1. Drill 4 weld holes 7 mm (1/4 in) in size around the edge of the bolt mounting hole.
2. Feed a heavy (mechanics) wire in through the bolt mounting hole and out through the access hole.
3. Secure a new hinge bolt to the wire.
4. Draw the bolt through the access hole and into the mounting hole.

Use a suitable spacer and a nut in order to pull the hinge bolt completely through the hole. Ensure that the hinge bolt is flush with the back surface.

5. Once the stud is in position, plug weld the hinge bolt in place.
6. For the front hinge bolts, seal the access hole by completely welding the piece that you saved into the inboard hinge pillar.
7. Clean and prepare the welded surfaces.

Important: Prior to refinishing, refer to GM 4901MD-99 Refinish Manual for recommended products. Do not combine paint systems. Refer to paint manufacturer's recommendations. For further information or to order Manual, call 1-800-269-5100.

8. Prime the surfaces using a 2-part catalyzed primer.
9. Apply sealers and corrosion protection materials as needed.

Important: 

•	When reinstalling related panels and components, refer to the appropriate section of the service manual for the component fastener tightening specifications.

•	Fasten all of the components to the proper tightening specifications.

10. Reinstall all of the related panels and components.