GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 1997 🢒 Corvette 🢒 Body and Accessories 🢒 Exterior/Interior Trim 🢒 Rear Compartment Side Trim Panel

Removal Procedure

    Object Number: 71203 Size: SH
  1. Open and support the rear lift window.
  2. Remove the strut. Refer to Rear Compartment Lift Window Strut Replacement in Body Rear End.
  3. Uncover the upper seat belt guide bolt by pushing up at the belt edge of the bolt cover.
  4. Remove the seat belt guide bolt.

    5. Object Number: 71202 Size: SH
  5. Remove the roof lift off panel and rear roof bow interior center trim panel. Refer to Rear Roof Bow Trim Panel Replacement
  6. Remove the upper side fastener securing the rear roof bow weatherstrip.

    7. Object Number: 71203 Size: SH
  7. Remove the upper push in fastener from the side trim panel.
  8. Remove the speaker grille from the side trim panel.
    9. 8.1. Pry up the middle of the forward edge first.
    8.2. Pry up the top or the middle of the rear edge.
    8.3. Lift the grill up out of the panel.
  9. Remove the fir tree push-in retainer from the grille opening.
  10. Remove the rear fir tree fastener attaching the side trim panel.
  11. Remove the side trim panel.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 71203 Size: SH
  1. Position the side trim panel to the lock pillar.
  2. Secure the panel with the push-in fasteners and hook and loop fasteners.
  3. Install the upper fir tree retainer and press the retainer firmly into the roof bow.
  4. Install the strut. Refer to Rear Compartment Lift Window Strut Replacement in Body Rear End.
  5. Install the seat belt guide bolt.

    6. Tighten
    Tighten the seat belt guide bolt to 46 N·m (34 lb ft).

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  6. Install the fir tree push-in retainer in the speaker opening.
  7. Insert the lower tab of the grille into the opening and snap the grille in place.

    8. Object Number: 71202 Size: SH
  8. Install the rear roof bow weatherstrip upper side fastener.
  9. Install the rear roof bow interior trim panel and the roof. Refer to Rear Roof Bow Trim Panel Replacement
  10. Remove the support and close the lift window.