Important: The quarter panel is attached to the vehicle structure with spot-welds, except at the rear roof pillar where it is silicon-bronze welded (1) to the door frame opening outer panel. Due to the manner in which the quarter panel attached to the door frame, a special sectioning procedure has been developed for improved serviceability.

1. Remove all related panels and components including stationary glass.

Important: When replacing panels that involve servicing stationary glass, refer to GM Service Bulletin No. 43-10-48 before performing any priming or refinishing work.

2. Visually inspect and restore as much of the damage as possible to factory specifications.
3. Remove sealers and anti-corrosion materials as necessary.



4. Note the size of the service part and locate the sectioning joints at the sail panels (2) and rocker panel accordingly.
5. Measure 50 mm (2 in) down (3) from the factory silicon-bronze joint (1) to locate sectioning cut.
6. Locate, mark, and drill out all factory welds. Note the number and location of welds for installation of the service assembly.
7. Remove the damaged quarter panel.

1. Prepare the mating surfaces as necessary.
2. Temporarily position the service panel on the vehicle.



3. Trim the original panel to leave a gap of one and one-half times the thickness of the metal at the sectioning joint location.
4. Cut a 100 mm (4 in) piece from the original quarter panel for backing plates (2).
5. Remove the flange on each side of the backing plates so that they will fit beyond the sectioning joints.
6. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes as necessary in the locations noted from the original panel.
7. Drill plug weld holes along the sectioning cuts of the service part. These should be located approximately 25 mm (1 in) from the edge of the cuts.
8. Prepare the mating surfaces and position the backing plates with 50 mm (2 in) of the backing plates.
9. Check for proper fit and alignment.
10. Plug weld accordingly.
11. Stitch weld along the entire joints.
12. Make 25 mm (1 in) gaps between them.
13. Go back and complete the stitch weld. This will create solid joints with minimal heat distortion.
14. Complete all other welds and sectioning procedures as necessary.

Important: Do not combine paint systems. Refer to paint manufacturers recommendations.

15. Prime with 2-part catalyzed primer.
16. Apply sealers and anti-corrosion materials as necessary.
17. Install all related panels and components.