Removal Procedure
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Both the driver-side and passenger-side front wheelhouses are available as complete sub-assemblies with the strut tower attached to the wheelhouse. The strut mounting holes are pre-punched in the service part, which also includes all necessary component stud mounts. When replacing a wheelhouse, carefully position the service assembly using three-dimensional measuring equipment to properly locate the wheelhouse. |
| • | Do not replace the entire wheelhouse when damage is limited to the front portion of the wheelhouse assemblies. In such a situation, the technician can section the wheelhouse. |
| • | Inspect for damage where the wheelhouse is attached to the cowl panel (1). If the panels have been separated, it will be necessary to repair the cowl panel and replace the wheelhouse. If the panels have not been separated and there is no damage in this location, the wheelhouse can be sectioned. |
- Remove panels and components as necessary for access.
- Restore as much of the damage as possible to factory specifications.
- Place 25 mm (1 in) wide masking tape (1) following the forward contour of the strut tower.
- Cut the wheelhouse along the outside edge of the masking tape.
- Locate, mark, and drill out the factory welds attaching the wheelhouse to the radiator support and the upper and lower front rails.
- Remove the damaged section of the wheelhouse.
Installation Procedure
- When preparing the service part, cut the forward apron well beyond the 25 mm (1 in) overlap needed for sectioning (1).
- Temporarily position the new wheelhouse section on the vehicle, and mark a line on the new wheelhouse section by tracing along the cut line of the original wheelhouse (1).
- Remove the new wheelhouse section.
- Measure and cut 25 mm (1 in) inboard along the traced line to create an overlap. After installation, the original wheelhouse will overlap the modified service part.
- Drill an 8 mm (5/16 -in) hole every 35 mm (1-3/8 in) along the overlap on the new wheelhouse section.
- Prepare all mating surfaces for welding as necessary.
- Apply 3M Weld-Thru Coating P/N 05916 or equivalent to all mating surfaces.
- Position the new wheelhouse section and check the fit.
- Plug weld on the outboard side of the panel as necessary.
- Clean and prepare all bare metal surfaces.
Important: Prior to refinishing, refer to publication GM 4901M-D-01 GM Approved Refinish Materials for recommended products. Do not combine paint systems. Refer to paint manufacturer's recommendations.
- Apply the following as necessary:
| • | Sealers and anti-corrosion materials |
| • | Two-part catalyzed primer |
- Install all related panels and components removed for access.
