Weld-Through Primer Guidelines: FCA/Stellantis - UPDATE

Weld-through primers are generally a zinc-based product that are applied to the mating surfaces prior to welding. Corroding zinc forms zinc oxide which protects the steel. This is called sacrificial corrosion. For a quality weld to be made it’s required that the weld-through primer be removed from the direct weld zone before welding the joint when GMA welding. Many OEMs have a position on when and how to use weld-through primer or when it shouldn’t be utilized. Let’s see what FCA/Stellantis recommends and where this information can be found.

FCA/Stellantis has recently updated their weld-through primer recommendations. Previously written manuals by Fiat recommended the use of weld-through primer, while Chrysler written manuals advised against the use of weld-through primer. The current editions of all FCA/Stellantis manuals state that:

"FCA US LLC does not recommend the use of any type of "weld-thru" primer during repairs. Weld-bonding with corrosion protecting adhesives or sealers, along with final application of inner panel corrosion protection is the proper method."

This can be found under: 31 Collision Information ➤ Standard Procedures ➤ Corrosion Protection.

Use the vehicle-specific body repair manuals to determine which type of welding is required for the repair you are performing. Failure to follow OEM procedures will sacrifice the safety and quality of the repair.

For additional FCA/Stellantis information, check out the following pages:
Alfa Romeo OEM Information
Chrysler OEM Information
Dodge OEM Information
Fiat OEM Information
Jeep OEM Information
RAM OEM Information

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:
Step-By-Step: Accessing FCA/Stellantis Repair Information
Weld-Through Primer Guidelines
Welding And MIG Brazing Hotspot


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