Ford/Lincoln Adds Explorer And Aviator Rear Rail Sectioning Procedure

Ford/Lincoln has expanded available sectioning procedures to include a rear rail sectioning procedure in the 2020-2025 Explorer and 2020-2025 Aviator Workshop manual.

During the I-CAR Live From SEMA - Panel Discussion: Ford, Gerry Bonanni, Ford SR Engineer, Paint And Body, announced the addition of a rear rail (rear side member) sectioning procedure that is now available.

The rear rail (rear side member) on a 2020-2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator is found under: 501-30 Rear End Sheet Metal Repairs ➤ Removal And Installation ➤ Rear Side Member Section. This rail is made of boron steel and was previously only allowed to be installed as a complete assembly.

Ford provides three locations which the rear rail can be sectioned based on severity. If damage exceeds available sectioning locations, the complete rear rail needs to be replaced. The sectioning joint requires a 50 mm backer, but the cut location is not welded at the seam. After welding is complete and the area is properly prepared, seam sealer is applied to the sectioning location.

Please be aware that Ford is in the process of updating the Workshop manual and the sectioning joint should not be seam welded as described in the general procedure.

Always refer to the vehicle-specific Workshop manual when performing repairs. Failure to follow OEM procedures sacrifices the safety and duality of the repair.

For additional Ford/Lincoln information, check out the following pages:
Ford OEM Information
Lincoln OEM Information



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