1990 Honda Accord Horizontal Rocker Panel Pinchweld Flanges

In 1990, Honda Motor Corporation introduced a redesigned Accord model. Instead of the traditional down-standing pinchweld flange under the rocker panels, this vehicle was designed with a pinchweld flange that stands out horizontally from the outboard sides of the rocker panels. There are also four small jacking point locations at both ends of each rocker. Each of these jacking points looks like a short (four inch) portion of the traditional down-standing pinch weld flange. However, a closer inspection of these points will reveal that they are only sheet metal which is spot welded to the bottom of the rocker panel, see Photograph 1.

Due to their limited structural strength and attachment, these flanges should not be used as holding points for moderate or heavy damage repair. Single light pulls can be accomplished with the vehicle mounted and held by all four of the jacking point flanges, but care must be taken not to over stress them.

The horizontal flanges must be used to hold the vehicle during most structural restoration procedures. Repair equipment manufacturers are aware of the repair problems associated with this type of vehicle construction. Some such as Car-O-Liner, Chief Automotive and Celette already have fixtures in place to adapt their equipment to this construction and others are in the development or manufacturing stage, see Photograph 2.

Each repair shop should contact their local equipment supplier to determine what hardware is available for their individual needs.

As an additional option, there are also "universal clamps" available which are designed to work with existing unibody holding devices.

Depending on the type of clamping and hook-up used, some vertical support may be required to brace the vehicle.

The information provided in this bulletin is for educational purposes only. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this bulletin, Tech-Cor assumes no responsibility or liability for any repairs performed using information from any publication issued by Tech-Cor.

Any person performing repairs must determine whether any suggested or recommended procedures or repairs are suitable or appropriate for the particular vehicle being repaired. The repairer remains solely responsible for such determination, as well as for the proper completion of the repairs.

Reproduction of this bulletin is not permitted without the written approval of Tech-Cor.